The annual Windhoek Jazz Festival is set to grace Namibia’s capital city with musical magic on October 7th, following a three-year hiatus imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The City of Windhoek unveiled the event during a grand launch, revealing a star-studded lineup that promises an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
Renowned South African singer-songwriter and guitarist, Jonathan Butler, takes center stage as the main act, with a lineup of supporting performances from a variety of talented artists. The return of the festival couldn’t have been timelier, with Mayor Joseph Uapingene emphasizing its considerable influence on the local economy, the artist community, and the city’s residents.
Mayor Uapingene highlighted the festival’s significance, noting that it not only showcases international artistic excellence but also provides a platform for local talents to shine and exhibit their creativity. He described the event as a breeding ground for dreams, connections, and the birth of future stars, underlining its role in fostering a vibrant cultural scene.
Reflecting on the challenges and rewards of this year’s artist selection process, Uapingene revealed that the lineup would include local artists such as Suzy Eises, Savanna Afros from Zimbabwe, Erna Chimu, and Esme Songbird. The City of Windhoek’s Chief Executive, Moses Matyayi, echoed the sentiment of the mayor, asserting that the festival stands as a vital marketing identifier for the city.
Throughout its history, the Windhoek Jazz Festival has consistently drawn massive crowds of up to 5,000 jazz enthusiasts, solidifying its position as a highly anticipated event on the global music calendar. With the triumphant return of the festival after its 2019 edition, Windhoek is set to once again reverberate with soulful melodies and infectious rhythms, creating an unforgettable experience for both local attendees and international visitors.
