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Articles by Pinehas Nakaziko
Leah Misika steps into skills development
Long before the fashion brand ‘La Mode Fashions’ became a name in Namibia’s fashion industry, it began as a childhood dream called B-Lago. Leah Misika, a seasoned fashion designer based in Katima Mulilo with more than 15 years’ experience, is the young woman behind the fashion brand. She said her dream began years ago, taking shape when she was about eight, watching fashion shows on F-TV on DStv, which opened her eyes to a world she wanted to be part of.
Maranatha Goroh’s ‘All We Need’ hits screens
Seven years after releasing her gospel song ‘All We Need’, Namibian award-winning gospel singer and vocal coach Maranatha Goroh is giving it new life with a live-recorded music video featuring South African gospel star Ntokozo Mbambo. The music video, filmed in Windhoek, will be released today on YouTube and other music platforms, offering a new expression of a song whose message remains central to Maranatha’s faith.
Skipper Wills Dedefines Success
Namibian hip-hop artist Malima William, known as Skipper Wills, is showing that success does not have to be achieved in either the office or the entertainment world alone. As he continues to develop his career in the music industry, the Ondangwa-born rapper has also developed himself into a skilled boilermaker by applying both music and technical skills to shape his future.
Pop goes to China
Namibian filmmaker Jacky Pop is currently in China finalising a global distribution deal for his upcoming web series ‘Omunahambo Wange Season 3’ while exploring new project collaborations. The actor and founder of Films Icon, Jackson Nghinamhito, is adding the final touches to the deal for the much-anticipated Oshiwambo-Chinese web series.
Oshakati Totem Expo to pull crowds
All is set for the 14th edition of the Oshakati Totem Expo, with preparations already underway, while organisers say they are working hard towards a bigger and better event this year. This year’s edition, which will incorporate culture, commerce, entertainment and community spirit, will be held from 29 May to 6 June at Oshakati’s Independence Stadium under the theme ‘Building Relationships Through Culture’.
New awards growing Namibian music beyond borders
The newly introduced Ongoma Music Awards have attracted the attention of artists from other southern African countries. Established at the start of 2026 by Ndawana Ndume, a musician from Namibia’s north, the awards aim to give emerging talents a chance to earn recognition and increase their chances of success in the industry.
DJ Siya Hits Sweet Note With Malawi’s Driemo
Namibian musician DJ Siya has teamed up with the Malawian music sensation Driemo to produce a romantic track titled ‘Duwa’, which will be released on Sunday. One of the artist’s energetic releases is the song ‘Bov’o’, which is well known throughout Namibia. DJ Siya says the collaboration with Driemo did not involve any travelling to Malawi; he simply needed to make the right connections. “I just contacted him via Mr Eddo, who is his manager in Lusaka, Zambia,” he says.
Calling choreographers to join African dance experience
Namibian choreographers and film-makers are invited to enter their productions to the 2026 JOMBA! Digital Open Horizons platform, which will be staged as part of South Africa’s most prestigious contemporary dance event in Durban. Organised by the Centre for Creative Arts at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, the Digital Open Horizons platform will be held during the annual JOMBA! Contemporary Dance Experience from 27 August to 8 September this year.
Kwaito star Dollar 6 comeback after 14-year silence
After more than a decade away from the spotlight, Namibian kwaito artist Sedekia Nakaambo, known as Dollar 6, says he is ready to return to music – if given the support he believes has been missing. Speaking to The Namibian over the weekend, the artist said he has been absent from the music scene for the last 14 years. “The reason why I haven’t been involved in music is financial issues… there’s nothing that comes out of my music for me to continue or even record a new album,” he added.
Upcoming Ondangwa Expo sparks artists’ concerns
The upcoming Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition 2026, scheduled to take place between 24 April and 2 May under the theme ‘Connecting Local Trade to the World,’ has already sparked discussions, excitement and controversy. As many citizens anticipate the annual event, social media platforms have been witnessing increasing uneasiness among certain local artists being denied the opportunity to perform at the show.
Namibian model eyes crown at Miss African Essence
Namibian model Laina Mwatukange is set to represent the country at the Miss African Essence International Pageant in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, later this month, marking her second appearance on an international stage. The 27-year-old final-year journalism and media studies student is scheduled to depart on Sunday ahead of the grand finale on 3 May. She says her return to the global pageant circuit reflects personal growth and a clearer sense of purpose. “Things are different now.
Papa Shikongeni’s art – a spiritual reincarnation
Veteran visual artist Papa Shikongeni is currently showcasing his ‘Creativity Within Oneness’ exhibition and hosting a collage-making workshop at Swakopmund. The body of work is on display at the Woermannhaus Art Gallery until 12 May. The collection offers visitors a spiritual tour of Shikongeni’s inner world, combining past experiences with present emotions through texture, layers, and symbolic narrative. One such piece is titled ‘Drumming Horns’.
Gospel musicians decry exclusion from national events
Namibian gospel musicians have raised concerns about being excluded from major national event line-ups and awards recognition, calling for greater inclusion and genre representation. Abner Mumbala, who joined the gospel music scene in 2009, says the issue has persisted for too long and should be addressed.
Kaboy Kamakili: From Custody to Comeback
After a detention period of nine months, kwaito musician Kaboy Kamakili has emerged with a fresh outlook on life. Kamakili recently shared thoughts about his future career, previous difficulties and his plans for making a comeback. He says he became involved with alcohol and drugs and had some cases against him. The artist was recently released on bail after spending nine months in prison on cellphone robbery charges.
Mvula drops new album, calls for growth in local music industry
Namibian artist Lasarus Mvula has released his latest self-titled album, ‘Mvula’, an 18-track project he says reflects both his artistic growth and the potential of the local music industry. The album features collaborations with several Namibian artists, including Ndappy Royal, Neslow, Sweety Namibia, Dkandjafa, John Shibaza, Xmas, Zomblam and Page Ethnix. Blending African rhythms with international influences, the project aims to showcase the diversity of local sound.
Namibia Backs Elly Aron at Miss World
Namibian beauty queen Elly Aron is officially set to represent Namibia on the international stage in Vietnam this year. The beauty queen will be blazing the stage during the 73rd Miss World event, which will take place between 9 August and 5 September.
Ongoma awards offer emerging artists hope
The Ongoma Music Awards, aimed at uplifting upcoming local artists, have shown promising support ahead of the submission deadline set for today. The organisers say so far, more than 200 emerging artists and upcoming producers have shown interest in the awards, which will include nine categories. Awards founder and executive director Ndawana Ndume says the idea is to bridge the gap between upcoming artists and the main industry.
Local comedy opens casting call for actors, investors
A new Namibian feature film, ‘African Relativity’, is calling on local actors and investors to come on board as it prepares for production. The film has more than 30 speaking roles available across diverse age groups and backgrounds. The comedy, written and directed by Florian Schott and Ndinomholo Ndilula, is set in Katutura and follows a multi-character storyline unfolding over a single day.
Strong turnout marks successful 2026 local film week
The Namibia Film Commission (NFC) has concluded its 2026 film week, with organisers reporting strong public turnout and growing industry participation, signalling momentum in Namibia’s film sector. Held over four days, the event brought together filmmakers, policymakers, students and industry stakeholders to showcase local and African productions while strengthening professional networks.
Strong turnout marks successful 2026 local film week
The Namibia Film Commission (NFC) has concluded its 2026 film week, with organisers reporting strong public turnout and growing industry participation, signalling momentum in Namibia’s film sector. Held over four days, the event brought together filmmakers, policymakers, students and industry stakeholders to showcase local and African productions while strengthening professional networks.
Namibian film earns international nominations
A Locally produced film, ‘Life – Living in Faith Everyday’, is gaining international attention after securing two nominations at the Lift-Off Global Network Sessions, signalling growing recognition for Namibia’s film industry. The 58-minute drama and romantic thriller, produced by Optimistic Media Group, has been nominated in the Feature Film Content and Audience Choice categories.
President backs Ondangwa expo
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has pledged N$10 000 towards the upcoming Ondangwa Trade and Industrial Exhibition, indicating the government’s commitment to local trade and enterprise. This was revealed by vice president Lucia Witbooi during a fundraising gala dinner held at Ondangwa on Saturday.
Episode 9 turns personal pain into new album
Otjiwarongo-based rapper Episode 9 has released a new 14-track album titled ‘Tears of a Loner’, using music to reflect on personal struggles, loss and resilience. The album, released under Red Empire Gang Records, draws heavily from the artist’s experiences with heartbreak, rumours and other personal challenges. Episode 9, whose real name is Patrick Kapitango, says the project was born out of a difficult period in his life.
Visions Beauty Exhibition set for Windhoek debut
Vibration Studios will host its first Visions Beauty Exhibition on 4 April at the Windhoek Showgrounds. The event will bring together beauty, skincare, grooming and wellness brands, promoting self-expression and confidence. Organisers say the exhibition seeks to reshape how beauty is understood, while creating space for local creatives and entrepreneurs to showcase their work.
TopCheri wins southern Africa award in Kigali
Award-winning Namibian musician Monica Pineas, known as TopCheri, has been named the best star artist for southern Africa (2025/2026) at the Shining Stars Africa Awards. The continental awards ceremony, which celebrates excellence and creativity across Africa, took place on Saturday in Kigali, Rwanda, and brought together artists, entrepreneurs and leaders from across the continent. TopCheri says she was surprised but deeply grateful for the recognition.
From Fireside Tears to ‘I Am The Door’: VDKei Crazyboy’s Rise
There is something deeply spiritual about the journey of Fidelis Pataka, better known as VDKei Crazyboy, in the music circle. The artist and self-made producer says his story begins in the mahangu fields of Okaku Etilahi at Ondonga, and tears shed in village smoke. Now his voice booms through speakers across Namibia with the release of his recent project titled ‘I Am The Door’, a 17-track collaboration album with artist Proof Nana. “Before music, there was pain.
Salimi Gerhard: Women, straighten your crowns
Radio personality Salimi Gerhard is taking her advocacy beyond the airwaves with a women’s empowerment brunch scheduled for 14 March at an Oshakati hotel. The event, titled ‘Straighten Your Crowns, Ladies – It’s Time to Rise’, aims to create a space for healing, reflection and renewed confidence among women. It will run from 15h00 to 20h00, with tickets priced at N$100.
Self-taught baker turning stress into dessert
For many young people, stress can be overwhelming – especially for those whose dreams are larger than the resources available to achieve them. For Oshakati-based baker Ragmatah Candido, stress has become the driving force behind her determination to succeed through the art of baking. As the founder of Ragmas Desserts, Candido began without a professional or educational background in baking. Instead, she started her journey with only flour, sugar and faith.
Nascam defends N$2 royalty rates
The Namibian Society of Composers and Authors of Music (Nascam) has defended its royalty distribution model after member of parliament Frederick Shitana questioned reports on local musicians earning as little as N$2 per broadcast play. Shitana recently argued that the long-standing remuneration structure, which he says dates back to 1990, is disadvantageous and amounts to “insulting” local musicians.
MP Shitana slams N$2 royalties
Namibian musicians are still earning as little as N$2 per broadcast play, a rate member of parliament (MP) and artist Frederick Shitana says has remained unchanged since independence. Shitana raised the issue during a workshop on the draft copyright bill, hosted by the Business and Intellectual Property Authority (Bipa) in Windhoek last week. The proposed legislation is expected to be tabled in the parliament later this year.
Youth leader earns continental recognition in Harare
Namibian entrepreneur, economic diplomacy expert and youth leader Ndahafa Hapulile was awarded at the Iconic Africa Summit and Honours 2026 in Harare, Zimbabwe, over the weekend. Hapulile was named African Youth Ambassador and won the Patrice Lumumba Leadership Excellence and Integrity award during the summit. The summit was hosted under the theme ‘The Africa We Want, Sustainable Development, Everyone’s Responsibility’.
Sophy The Ambassador to launch third gospel album
Gospel musician Sofia Kaponde, popularly known as Sophy The Ambassador, is set to launch her third studio album, ‘Twalandulamo’, at EMC Church at Walvis Bay on Saturday. Born and raised at Amunganda at Ombata village, Sophy says her musical journey began in Sunday school already. “I started singing when I was a child. From Sunday school, I joined the worship team, and that is where my love for gospel music began,” she says.
Eenhana TikTok star seeks support
A comedian and TikToker from Eenhana, with over two million likes and over 100 000 followers on TikTok, is reaching out to event organisers and businesses to book him so he can continue creating content. Patrick Hinamwaami (25), known as Patrick-Lela, says while his audience keeps growing, financial challenges are slowing him down. “My followers love my content, but it is not easy to continue creating without income,” he says.
This is just the beginning - Ms Gideon on Sony deal
Namibian songstress Panduleni Gideon, known as Ms Gideon, says her signing with Sony Music Africa is a “calling unfolding”. The singer spoke to The Namibian this week in her first interview since the deal was announced. “I was blessed to be discovered by ERA Music Group, who invited me to a writing camp in Johannesburg,” she said. “That experience really shaped a lot of what I’m creating now.
Patrick Sikiliza releases Valentine’s Day single featuring Ras Sheehama
Namibian artist Patrick Sikiliza is celebrating Valentine’s Day with the launch of a new love single titled ‘Home Away From Home’, featuring reggae legend Ras Sheehama. The chorus was written by Dion Auala (Diyon), while the song was produced by Mr Glo of Glo Music Production. According to Sikiliza, the song is more than a love song. “’Home Away From Home’ is a declaration of love. It speaks about choosing one person, repeatedly, regardless of life’s storms, distance or circumstances.
Love and Money: Can Romance Survive Economic Pressure?
As lovers across the world prepare to celebrate Valentine’s Day, which is often associated with romance, grand gestures and gift-giving, there are many who are quietly struggling with a less romantic reality. Traditionally seen as a day for people to show their love and affection to family and partners, it has slowly become commercialised, creating difficulties for those in poorer sections of society. Given the current economic state, can love survive when money is scarce?
Ms Gideon to release first single under Sony Music Africa
Rising star Panduleni Gideon, popularly known as Ms Gideon, recently signed a full record contract deal with Sony Music Africa. The deal is in partnership with ERA Music Group. The Windhoek-based singer has also announced she will be releasing her first single under the label, titled ‘Tiki Tak Tak,’ on 27 February.
Elly Aron: Miss World’s new software developer
Newly crowned Miss World Namibia 2026, software developing student Elly Aron (20), is set to represent the country in Vietnam while advocating for the prevention of teenage pregnancy. Aron says it took her a few days to digest being crowned Miss World Namibia 2026 last week. “After a few days, the reality settled in, and I felt an overwhelming sense of honour, responsibility, and admiration. I truly feel called for this role, and I accepted it with gratitude and humility,” she says.
Police warn against sharing harmful videos online
The police have urged the public not to share videos on social media out of context, saying they can negatively affect reputations and careers. This could even lead to being criminally charged, they add. This comes as a six-month-old video of musician David Shikalepo, or Exit Rockaz, being arrested recently resurfaced online. Deputy commissioner Frederick Ndjadila describes sharing such material as harmful. “This is a relatively old video that has resurfaced in recent times,” he said yesterday.
Namibian off to Mr Universe pageant in India
Josea Aber (25) will be the first male model to represent Namibia at the Mr Universe 2026 pageant in Lucknow, India. The youth mentor and pageant director from Otamanzi, a village in the north, says it will be an honour to represent the country on the global stage. “As the first male model to represent our nation at this global pageant, I’m also reaching out to seek support from our amazing Namibian community,” he says.
Study sport coaching at Unam
The University of Namibia (Unam) has added a bachelor’s degree of sport coaching to the courses it offers in response to sport increasingly contributing to national development, youth empowerment, and public health. Unam spokesperson Simon Namesho says the decision is motivated by the growing demand for formally qualified, ethically grounded, and scientifically informed sport coaches who can work effectively in sport, community, and school contexts.
Exhibitor deadline looms for 2026 PstBet Windhoek Cultural Festival
With the 31 January deadline rapidly approaching, organisers of the 2026 PstBet Windhoek Annual Cultural Festival are issuing a final call for exhibitors. As one of Namibia’s fastest-growing events, the organisers are urging creatives and entrepreneurs to secure their space before registration closes. Scheduled to run from 30 April to 3 May, the event continues to solidify its reputation as a dynamic convergence zone for culture, creativity and commerce.
Community art workshop creates path for local talent
For many people in Ombili’s community, art is not only a hobby, but a hope and means of income and believing in oneself. This was the spirit of the 12-day Knitting, Batik, and Painting workshop, held recently at the Ombili Community Centre in Windhoek. The workshop brought together 12 aspiring designers and artists from the community and concentrated on skills such as knitting, tie-dye, and painting on canvases.
ǁKharas commemorates International Day of Education with week-long pupil support campaign
The ǁKharas region has joined the global community in commemorating the International Day of Education, marked annually on 24 January, through a week-long campaign focused on supporting pupils. As part of the build-up to the international observance, newly elected regional councillors carried out education-related activities across the region.
Land titles lay foundations for homes at Outapi
House building has started at Outapi after 173 residents received Land Hold Title certificates. The Outapi Town Council says the initiative was first introduced in 2018, and is designed to provide secure land rights and affordable housing opportunities for residents. Council spokesperson Joolokeni Haidula says the issuing of land titles is now reflected in the construction taking place in the region.
Namibian teacher Robert Andreas named IFIP educator of the year for boy child inclusion
A Teacher and boy child inclusion activist from the ||Kharas region has been named educator of the year for inclusion by the International Forums of Inclusion Practitioners (IFIP). Robert Andreas is a guidance and counselling teacher at Suiderlig Secondary School at Keetmanshoop. He won the award after being nominated alongside teachers from across the globe, making the achievement a great success not only for him but for Namibia.
Ondangwa fish project targets job, food security
After years of standing unused, five water ponds at Ondangwa are being revived under a new aquaculture project led by Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge. The project, driven by regional and local authorities, is expected to start before the end of January as part of efforts to boost food security and economic activity in the area.
Youth orchestra gives life to Namibian fairy-tale
“I wanted to compose something that brings out Namibian stories and reminds us of who we are.” This is what Namibian composer Eslon Hindundu says about his latest work, ‘Otjihambarere, a Namibian Fairy Tale’, which will premiere at the 2025 National Youth Orchestra Festival. The performance will take place on 20 and 21 June at the National Theatre of Namibia (NTN). The piece will be brought to life by young Namibian musicians and conductors, marking a first-of-its-kind production.
Will AI empower or replace us?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fast becoming popular in Namibia, from smart technologies in schools to robotic services at local businesses. As AI begins to redefine the day-to-day lives of people, Youth Central took to the streets to find out how aware Namibia’s youth is of this fast-growing industry. Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Fighting alcohol abuse among the youth
Namibia’s youth is in the grips of a growing crisis, with alcohol abuse on the rise. But one Sesco Thomas (19) says she is determined to change this. “Young people are suffering, and many are using alcohol to mask pain,” the activist says. “We need real talk, real support, and real hope.” Thomas says she will be launching her first book, titled ‘Spirited Youth’, in September. It is a guide to helping young Namibians and teens everywhere end alcohol abuse and reclaim purpose.
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