In the annals of South African history, there exists a remarkable chapter that speaks of dedication, sacrifice, and a profound commitment to spreading the light of faith and knowledge. At the heart of this chapter lies the Oftebro Family, Norwegian missionaries whose unwavering determination and deep-rooted faith led them to establish a Mission station in the heart of Eshowe, South Africa. Their story is one of transcendent purpose, enduring love for a distant land, and the profound impact they had on the lives of the local community.

Amidst the backdrop of late 19th-century colonial Africa, the Oftebro family embarked on a journey that would change not only their own lives but the lives of countless others. With nothing but faith in their hearts and a vision for a brighter future, they left their homeland and ventured into the unknown, ultimately laying the foundations of a Mission Station that would become a beacon of hope and transformation in the Eshowe region.

This article delves into the fascinating tale of the Oftebro family, tracing their origins, detailing their extraordinary journey to South Africa, and chronicling their contributions to the Eshowe community. Their story is a testament to the enduring power of faith, the indomitable spirit of human endeavor, and the profound impact that individuals, driven by a sense of purpose, can have on the world around them.

Join us as we explore the Oftebro family’s mission in Eshowe, South Africa, and discover the enduring legacy they left behind, which continues to inspire and uplift generations to this day.

Ommund was the youngest of 10 children, his parents being Villum Christian Hendriksen and Gunhild Tollaksdatter. Villum Christian, a resident at Oftebro, held the position of a cotter on the farm associated with Å prestegård (the pastor’s farm). This cotter’s contract had been passed down to him from his father, Henrik Vrålsen. In 1797, following the passing of his wife, Henrik moved into his son’s home and remained there until his own passing in 1809. The responsibilities of a cotter encompassed working on the pastor’s farm and providing an annual hay delivery valued at 30 riksdaler for the pastor’s livestock. It is evident from documents signed on his behalf by others that Villum Christian likely did not possess the ability to read or write. Such a circumstance was quite common for individuals born around 1775 who belonged to the working class.

During Villum and Gunhild’s tenure as cotters at Oftebro, the pastor’s residence was occupied by Gabriel Kielland (Vicar of Lyngdal) and his wife, Gustava. Despite the social divisions of the time, there appeared to be a unique closeness between the cotter’s family and the pastor’s family. This close relationship is notably mentioned by Gustava Kielland in her memoirs, where she acknowledges Gunhild’s role in aiding her in establishing the first Women’s Mission Association in Norway.

Inspired by Gabriel, Ommund was motivated to pursue his education at the mission school established by the Norwegian Mission Society in Stavanger. Alongside a relative, Tobias Udland, Ommund completed his studies and embarked on a journey to South Africa aboard the brig “John Gibson” in 1849. Their voyage lasted five months, culminating in their arrival at Natal.

Cultivating a mission field in Zululand presented formidable challenges, particularly in the Empangeni district, where foreign missionaries had been forcibly evicted from their land just a few years prior to Ommund’s arrival. Adding to the difficulties was the district’s reputation as a “fever area,” where missionaries and their families faced significant health issues. Malaria, though not yet fully understood, was often attributed to the climate.

In these challenging circumstances, Ommund and his family encountered health problems that prompted them to seek an alternative location for their mission work. When Prince Cetshwayo, whom Ommund had a close relationship with, extended an invitation to settle in Eshowe, Ommund and his family embraced the opportunity. In 1861, they established a brand-new mission station, which officially became known as Eshowe Mission Station. Locally, it was affectionately referred to as “KwaMondi,” meaning “At Ommund’s place.” This relocation marked a pivotal moment in their mission journey, offering them a fresh start and a renewed sense of purpose in their service to the community.

In the midst of the Anglo-Zulu War in 1879, Ommund, along with the growing community of Norwegian missionaries, faced the necessity of evacuation to Natal for their safety. His once-thriving mission station was transformed into a British fortress, while the church he had painstakingly built now served as a field hospital. The ravages of war had temporarily displaced their mission work.

Upon Ommund’s return after the conflict, he confronted a disheartening scene. The Zulu forces had set fire to his mission station and razed his church to the ground. Undeterred by adversity, Ommund resolved to rebuild. With determination and unwavering faith, he orchestrated the construction of a new mission station, including a new church. This very church stands today as the place of worship for the KwaMondi congregation, a testament to his resilience and commitment to his calling.

In the twilight of his life, at the age of 73 in 1893, Ommund suffered a severe fall from his riding horse. Despite surviving the initial accident, his health deteriorated rapidly. During his final weeks, he often struggled to communicate and was unable to fully account for himself. Just when it seemed his condition might improve, he was struck by dysentery, ultimately succumbing to the illness. Ommund’s life, marked by unyielding dedication to his mission and the people he served, left an enduring legacy of faith and service.

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