Omaere is a fermented dairy product prepared in Namibia through the acidification of buttermilk[1][2] It is produced especially in Kunene (formerly known as Kaokoland), Omaheke and Otjozondjupa 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 as omashikwa in Ovambo, mpofu in Rukwangali, and omaere in Herero.
[2] Omaere is common in Namibia and used mostly with cooked oruhere (porridge, maize meal) by Herero people and by other several indigenous tribes, while many other tribes prefer to drink it on a daily basis.
Girls are taught how to milk and prepare omaere at an early age.