South African and Namibian artists will headline the Windhoek Annual Cultural Festival, celebrating diversity through music, art, food and performances from 22 to 25 May.
South African singer Naledi Aphiwe and renowned poet-musician Busiswa will headline this year’s edition, taking place at Sam Nujoma Stadium.
Main organiser Sylvester Shapwa says the event will be bigger and more multicultural than ever.
“We are delighted to invite international artists as well as local ones who truly represent the spirit of the celebration of culture,” he says.
“All along our intention has been to create a platform where individuals of different backgrounds converge, share their stories, and connect through art and culture.”
Aphiwe, whose voice was sampled on Chris Brown’s ‘Shooter’ studio album in 2023, will headline the ‘Saturday Experience’.
Busiswa, whose stage presence and poetic prowess will be showcased centre stage on Sunday, will provide a weekend of top-notch entertainment.
Headlining the main acts are some of the best Namibian artists, including King Tee Dee, Ms Gideon, Latoya Stella, Daymenment, DJ Spuzza, Mega Slaughterhouse, and DJ Vuyo.
Shapwa says the festival aims to close the cultural gap in Namibia’s social sphere.
“There was a clear need for an event – not only to commemorate our heritage, but also to create economic empowerment and community development,” he says.
“Each year, we want to do better, reach more communities, and create a platform that inspires local creatives and artisans.”
In addition to music and performances, the festival will include various activities for everyone.
There will be exhibitions of traditional dances, interactive sessions with international artists, and art installations focusing on identity, community, and sustainability.
Local craftspeople will have an opportunity to exhibit and sell their own handcrafts.
This year’s celebration has new elements, including a pavilion of traditional and international cuisine tastings, a storytelling session and dance performances for the youth, and gala dinner events combining fine dining with live entertainment.
“We’ve created the experience to be inspirational and immersive,” Shapwa says.
“Whether this is your first time attending or your fifth, we want you to gain from it an appreciation of how rich Namibian and international cultures are.”
With the theme ‘Embracing Our Differences’, the festival intends to showcase inclusivity, cross-cultural understanding, and a sense of unity among tourists.
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