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Omaere is afermented dairy product prepared inNamibia through the acidification ofbuttermilk[1][2] It is produced especially in Kunene (formerly known as Kaokoland),Omaheke andOtjozondjupa regions and Botswana by the Ovaherero, Himba and Mbanderu tribes. However, it has become a popular beverage in many households and communities across Namibia and Southern Africa.[2]
Fermented buttermilk is known asomashikwa inOvambo,mpofu inRukwangali, andomaere inHerero.[2]Omaere is common in Namibia and used mostly with cookedoruhere (porridge, maize meal) byHerero people and by other several indigenous tribes, while many other tribes prefer to drink it on a daily basis.
In traditional Herero culture, the production ofomaere is performed by the women, who are responsible for milking and acidifying the milk. Girls are taught how to milk and prepareomaere at an early age.
Omaere is also available as a mass-produced product.[3]
