Category: Arts

WINDHOEK, 13 FEB (NAMPA) – The late President Hage Geingob was not only renowned for his leadership but also his impeccable sense of style.

His attire, carefully chosen for every occasion, whether domestic or international, left a lasting impression on many, including local fashion designers who admired his fashion sense.

Namibian fashion designer, Melisa Poulton shared her insights on Geingob’s iconic style and the impact it had on the fashion scene in the country, saying: ‘He was a true style icon. His choice of clothing always exuded confidence and sophistication. His preference for tailored suits, often accessorised with vibrant Namibian fabrics such as Oshiwambo-inspired patterns or the bold colours of the Damara/Nama people, became a signature of his style.’

She added that Geingob’s attention to detail, from perfectly coordinated ties to polished shoes, set a high standard for sartorial elegance, saying that he understood the power of clothing as a form of self-expression and representation.

She sai
d that his attire conveyed a sense of pride in Namibian culture while embracing global fashion influences and was a testament to his ability to bridge traditional and contemporary aesthetics.

Poulton stated that if she had been accorded the opportunity to design or style the late president, she would have jumped at the chance since that is what she has strived for her entire career.

Whether attending official State functions or representing Namibia on the international stage, President Geingob’s wardrobe choice was always meticulously curated, reflecting his status and the value of the nation.

‘As Namibia mourns the loss of President Hage Geingob, his legacy lives on not only in his contributions to the country but also in the enduring influence of his distinguished style. Fashion designers and enthusiasts alike will continue to draw inspiration from his timeless elegance and commitment to representing Namibia with grace and dignity on the global stage,’ Poulton noted.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency

The sixth edition of the Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) Fashion Weekend has been scheduled for Nov. 11 and Nov. 12.

Segun Agbaje, Group Chief Executive Officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

Agbaje explained that GTCO Fashion Weekend was an annual consumer-focused fair designed to showcase the best of Africa’s finest fashion to a global audience.

“Fashion is not just about making items of clothing or style accessories, it is about exploring feelings and channelling creative expressions to create experiences that resonate with various buyers, across different markets.

“The GTCO fashion weekend is constantly evolving to reflect the rapid growth of the global fashion industry in terms of size and sophistication.

“We will continue to draw on the endless possibilities in fashion retail to create better outcomes for individuals, indigenous businesses, and our communities.

“The 2023 edition will provide unique opportunities for local fashion retailers to seize on emerging trends and buyers’ preferences to reposition their businesses and thrive amidst the uncertainties and complexities of the future,” he said.

Agbaje noted that over the years, the event had firmly established its place as an incubator for diverse talent, creativity, and enterprise in fashion retail.

He said this had brought together some of Africa’s prominent fashion brands alongside relatively newer labels to interact with universally celebrated fashion icons and engaging style personalities.

He explained that in keeping with tradition, this year’s event will feature insightful masterclasses and thrilling runway shows as well as free stalls for over 120 fashion retailers.

“Colourful façades, lively music and a delightful ambience are popular elements of GTCO fairs and work together to create a multisensory, thoroughly fulfilling experience for all attendees.

“The GTCO Fashion weekend is one of the main platforms of Guaranty Trust Bank for promoting enterprise, primarily to benefit its growing retail and SME customer base as well as support the indigenous creatives Industry.

“The highly anticipated event is scheduled to hold on November 11th and 12th, 2023, at the GTCentre, Plot 1 Water Corporation Drive, Oniru, Lagos,” he said. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Namibian musician, Andreas Backos has said there is a need for sponsors, promotion and marketing of the Ma /Gaisa music genre so that it can be recognised locally and worldwide.

Backos, known by his stage name as ‘Ome Backos’, said this while speaking at the launch of the Next Ma /Gaisa Star Search Season 3, in the capital.

He said securing sponsors, promoting and marketing the genre is the main challenge currently and called on stakeholders including the National Arts Council of Namibia, companies, and individuals, to come on board to support the genre so that it can be marketed and sold internationally.

‘Improving Ma/Gaisa is not only for us but also for young aspiring artists in Namibia,’ he said.

Ma/Gaisa, a genre that originated in 2000, is a blend of Khoekhoe melodies with added instruments and was originally performed without instruments.

Today, Ma/Gaisa is sung with instruments such as a keyboard, which plays an important role.

At the same event, Namibia Society of Composers and Authors of Music Chief Executive Officer Albert Nikanor stated that it is critical to make the Ma/Gaisa genre available on many platforms.

He also expressed gratitude to SAN—Welwitschia Music Production for hosting the event.

The next Ma/Gaisa Star competition, as well as the grand finale, will take place in Swakopmund in the Erongo Region, depending on the sponsors and will benefit about 100 to 150 people in terms of employment for dancers, backing vocals, presenters, graphic designs, videos, camera crew, scriptwriters as well as artists.

The search for the next Ma/Gaisa star officially opened on Tuesday and is scheduled to end on 15 November.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency

Sensational Nigerian singer Akinola Oladapo, popularly known as `Skipper’ and ace music curator, DJ Sean Mannie have released an electrifying hit single titled ‘Gawu’.

Mr Honour Aghedo, the Project Manager of ONErpm representing the Reals A&R Record Label, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Monday.

According to him, the new ‘collabo single’, produced by the highly acclaimed Spellz, is a blend of Afrobeat, R&B, Pop, and dancehall influences.

He added that the new song has the ingredients to become a chart-topper and a staple in playlists that are meant to ‘uplift spirits and ignite dance floors.’

“Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, Skipper, also known as Akinola Oladapo, showcases his versatility by effortlessly blending Afrobeat, R&B, Pop, and dancehall influences.

“His velvety-smooth vocals intertwine with Spellz’s innovative production techniques, resulting in a sonic experience that exudes self-confidence, good vibes and an irresistible dance energy.

“Sean Mannie’s prowess as a DJ and music curator finds a complementary partner in Skipper’s multifaceted musical talents, showcasing a partnership that has the potential to resonate deeply with a diverse audience.

“The song extends an irresistible call to all, beckoning them to partake in the festivities, whether they find themselves on the dance floor or simply immersed in the euphoria of music.

“Central to the song’s charm is the seamless fusion of Skipper’s artistic prowess and Spellz’s production wizardry,” Aghedo said.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria

Ester Silas was crowned the 2023 Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off champion over the weekend, walking away with a fully equipped mobile food trailer, a N.dollars 10 000 cash award, and a N.dollars 5 000 Bakpro Vetkoek Voucher.

Loise Iimvula emerged as first runner-up and Laura Egumbo, the second runner-up.

Martha Murorua, Managing Director of Nedbank Namibia stated that the Kapana Cook-Off competition is more than just a culinary contest. She said it’s a catalyst for change in communities and businesses.

“The Kapana Cook-Off competition serves as a heartfelt effort to connect with and give back to the communities that our operations touch, all while fostering economic growth and honouring the cultural significance of Kapana,’’ she said.

Murorua highlighted that the ninth edition of the Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off Competition has solidified its standing as one of Namibia’s premier food festivals.

Nedbank Namibia’s unwavering dedication to the competition is reflected in its significant contribution of over seven million Namibian dollars since its inception in 2014, with financial contribution to winners reaching almost the two million Namibia dollars mark.

This investment underscores the bank’s dedication to economic growth and the development of small businesses. The true impact of the competition is evident in the successes of past winners, who have evolved into culinary pioneers and successful entrepreneurs, she said.

“They have not only started but, in some instances, expanded their businesses to enrich Namibia’s vibrant gastronomic landscape. Their achievements stand as a testament to both the enduring spirit of Namibian entrepreneurship and the transformative power of this competition,’’ she said.

An elated Silas expressed her gratitude and excitement, saying she is touched beyond words.

“Winning this competition means the world to me. It’s a validation of my hard work, and it fuels my passion for sharing my love for Namibian food such as kapana,” she said.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency

The Aodaman Traditional Authority on Saturday celebrated the Aodaman Annual Cultural Festival under the theme, ‘Reigniting our heritage’ at Khorixas in the Kunene Region.

In a statement availed to Nampa on Sunday, the Minister of Urban and Rural Development (MURD) Erastus Uutoni at the event stated that the assertion of cultural identity can only be envisioned on the basis of mutual respect and the acceptance of diversity.

“I believe that this cultural festival in its entirety, presents motivation to remember the important things and to showcase and pass the knowledge and traditions to the next generation,” the minister said.

Uutoni said that as a nation, “we first have to understand each other and appreciate each other’s way of life and socio-cultural identity” and that is only possible when the nation is knowledgeable about its distinct cultures, traditions and value systems.

Furthermore, this particular festival promotes intercultural understanding and showcases the community’s rich and cultural expressions and serves as a major tourist attraction both at local and international levels, he said.

Uutoni added that the traditional authority is also required to promote affirmative action amongst its members, particularly by promoting gender equality with regard to leadership positions in its structure.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency