AS the City of Windhoek kicks off the much-anticipated /Ae//Gams Arts and Cultural Festival, which starts today and will run until tomorrow, residents and visitors are in for a celebration of Namibia’s rich cultural experiences.
Organised by the City of Windhoek, the festival promises two days filled with traditional performances, artistic expression and cultural exchange under the theme ‘The charm goes beyond what you see’.
A parade of culture and tradition
The festival will kick off with a parade starting from the TransNamib railway station and making its way to the main festival venue at the City of Windhoek parking area. According to city spokesperson Harold Akwenye, this opening will be followed by a performance by the renowned Namjive Dance Group.
“We want people to arrive curious and leave inspired. That’s why we’re keeping some performances a surprise,” says Akwenye. He adds that attendees can look forward to poetry recitals, theatre productions, cultural parades, traditional cuisine, fashion displays and craft exhibitions over the two-day event.
Line-up of local talent and creative activities
The first day of the /Ae//Gams festival offers a lively mix of cultural and musical performances, starting with a parade and traditional dance showcases from groups such as Namjive, !Aib #Nisasib, Ovaherero Cultural Youth and the Bushmen Cultural Group. The evening will transition into a high-energy concert lineup featuring Peyaa Boy, Arrow Sparks, Mr. Makoya, Ugly Creatures Band and the College of the Arts Band.
Day two continues the celebration with a morning fun run and yoga session, followed by engaging activities such as a chess tournament and hands-on craft workshops led by local artisans.
Performances throughout the day include cultural showcases from the Amaburuxa, Onambula, and Black Melody groups, and musical sets by Botselo, Ms. Jade & Waldo Keys and Damas Fusion Band. A fashion show presented by MTC Windhoek Fashion Week and a grand closing performance by the beloved group Tswazi’s will wrap up the festivities.
According to Akwenye, the festival aims to unify and celebrate Namibia’s cultural richness.
“We want to foster pride in our diverse heritage while creating a platform that uplifts local creatives and encourages artistic expression in all its forms.”
Returning festivalgoers have expressed excitement about this year’s edition.
Calisto Dapilashimwe, who attended the inaugural event last year, describes it as heartwarming: “It’s beautiful seeing so many cultural groups in one place. Everyone was smiling, dancing and just happy.”
Lezhel Katuta, who has been a regular attendee, shares similar sentiments.
“Every year I come away with something new – whether it’s food, music or just understanding. I hope they bring back the food stands and games this year. And please, let’s have all our favourite artists perform!”
Platform for cultural education, economic growth
The festival’s chosen theme reflects the city’s commitment to celebrating not just the visual and performative aspects of culture, but also the deeper values that drive them.
“This year, the theme speaks to celebrating uniqueness, friendliness and the city’s historic roots,” Akwenye says.
Since its inception in 2001, the /Ae//Gams festival has become a staple event in Windhoek’s cultural calendar, drawing large crowds and providing artists with an important platform. It has been lauded for its role in boosting the visibility of the local creative industry while also creating economic opportunities.
“The event stimulates local commerce through the sale of arts, crafts and food. It’s also a networking opportunity for emerging and established artists alike,” Akwenye says.
He also highlights the festival’s contribution to temporary employment and its use as a vehicle for advocating cultural policy.
Historical significance and continued growth
Named after the Khoekhoe term for Windhoek, meaning ‘hot springs’, the /Ae//Gams festival honours indigenous heritage while bridging the gap between tradition and modern urban life. Over the years, the event has featured traditional village life recreations, with performances from groups like the Limbagwela Cultural Group, Amaburuxa Cultural Group, Mafwe Living Museum, Mbunza Living Museum and Ju/’Hoansi Living Museum.
In past editions, Zoo Park served as a main venue, hosting poetry readings at Post Street Mall, youth entertainment zones, and international cuisine day supported by various embassies. The event also included a youth day full of fun and learning – from face painting and jumping castles to live music and interactive art spaces.
This year, the City of Windhoek has emphasised the importance of inclusivity and innovation in its programming.
“We want everyone – locals, tourists, elders, children – to experience the depth of our traditions while connecting with today’s artists and thinkers,” Akwenye says.
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