Prehistoric, and historic antecedents of a contemporary Ngamiland community

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: An archaeological survey was incorporated as part of a long-term project which I began in 1973. Fieldwork has been carried out during two periods: July, 1973 - January, 1974 and February, 1975 - May, 1976. The work is centered at /ai/ai (Nxai Nxai) in northwestern Ngamiland. Malan (1950) and Yellen (1975) made small collections at this waterhole. My investigations are designed to increase our understanding of the social ecology of the zu/oasi and Ovaherero peoples who live in this region. Periodic animal and plant censuses are recorded so that reasonably precise estimates of productivity of both wild and domesticated food resources may be calculated. Inventories of animals killed are kept on a daily basis and vegetable foods acquired are recorded on a randomly established schedule. A logbook is maintained in which are kept data pertaining to the social behavior of all residents at and visitors to zu/oasi. A number of indicators of nutritional status of both zu/oasi and Ovaherero individuals are monitored periodically. Short reports on the project have appeared (Wilmsen 1976a, 1976b, van der Walt et al., 1977). This report is confined to the current status of the archaeological program and its implications.