Artists not happy to perform for free in honour of Nujoma

Some Namibian artists have strongly opposed a call by the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture to perform free of charge at a tribute concert honouring founding president Sam Nujoma.

The concert, scheduled for 26 February at Independence Arena, has sparked outrage within the creative community, with many labelling the request as exploitative and unfair.

The ministry’s press release framed the concert as an opportunity for artists to pay tribute to Nujoma’s legacy. However, artists argue that their work should be valued just as much as other service providers who will be paid for their contributions.

The dissatisfaction was widely shared on social media and WhatsApp groups, where prominent artists such as Berthold, Don Kamati and Orriza voiced their concerns.

“Instead of creating a budget that includes everyone, we are expected to apply and perform for free. What about catering services? Will they also provide their services without pay?” reads a message from a group of artists.

“Once again, artist are going to perform at our founding president’s tribute show [without pay], but they can pay service providers for sound, stage, catering services, even security guards are getting paid,” Don Kamati says.

Musician Samuel Shines also expresses frustration, stating that artists are consistently undervalued despite their contributions to national events.

“This reflects a troubling disregard for artists in this country, despite the undeniable value they bring – not just as entertainers but as providers of emotional and psychological relief through musical therapy,” he says.

Comedian Mich Gaoseb, known as Big Mitch, echoes these concerns, arguing that tribute events should serve as paid opportunities for artists.

“All year long, only a select few artists get bookings. This should be a milestone gig for others, not another free performance,” he says.

Adding to the controversy, artist Zindri Swartz says N$500 000 was allocated per region for memorial activities, yet artists are still being asked to work for free.

“This shows the continued disrespect of Namibian artists by their own government,” Swartz says.

In response, executive director of education, arts and culture Sanet Steenkamp has acknowledged the concerns raised and called for meaningful dialogue on the issue.

She emphasises that the request was not intended to exploit artists but rather to foster unity in honouring Nujoma. However, she says the issue of fair compensation for artists must be addressed in future national events.

“I have carefully read the concerns expressed, and I recognise the need for constructive dialogue on this matter.

“There is no doubt that artists play a vital role in our nation’s cultural fabric and healing process, particularly during times of national significance such as this,” Steenkamp says.

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