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 post Upcoming Ondangwa Expo sparks artists’ concerns appeared first on The Namibian.
Black News 
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.
A viral message, posted by Kadhila Amoomo Legal Practitioners, urges the Ondangwa Town Council to reconsider denying access to local artist Kaboy Kamakili to perform at this year’s event.
“Let us always remember not to break this young man,” the message reads. “Art and music are of great importance to our society.”
However, the town council has refuted the claims, citing the fact that the artist was among several bidders whose offer entailed a steep price tag, which nearly exhausted the performance budget without giving any detailed list of fees.
In their statement, the town council also clarifies the role of other artists. According to them, Manxebe participated in last year’s function, whereas Loco Sound featured during the recent gala dinner.
“We, as a council, make it our effort to rotate fairly among all artists,” they add, noting that the exhibition was not the only platform open to them.
There have been complaints concerning the repeated presence of certain artists such as Dama Monique at each year’s event.
However, one of the town council’s sources confirms that Dama Monique’s participation is also meant to enhance the representation of women among participants, given their low number from Ondangwa.
Some of the celebrities who will feature on stage are Gazza, Tate Buti and Latoya Stella, including emerging artists Daymentmet, Rubi Nation and Kastyle Ndonga Boy.
Town council chief executive Ismael Namgongo shares his thoughts on the expo’s future goals.
“We are trying to expose our entrepreneurs to opportunities that exist locally, nationally and internationally,” Namgongo says.
“People should believe that they can compete and grow on the global platform.”
He adds that the exhibition is not all about fun as it plays a crucial role in developing the town’s economy.
“When we conduct such activities, everybody wins – from people selling kapana to guesthouses and fuel stations. This activity rejuvenates our town,” he notes.
He says the event’s planning process starts as soon as the previous exhibition ends. “We analyse whatever went well, whatever did not go well, and build upon that for the next one,” he says.
Namgongo says being professional is key when selecting an artist to perform at the expo. “It is a family activity, thus we need to make sure that artists performing will deliver good messages, particularly to young people,” he notes.
He adds that over 70% of this year’s performers come from the Oshana region, indicating development.
“We are trying to create a platform where upcoming artists can showcase their talent together with already established artists,” he says.
The post Upcoming Ondangwa Expo sparks artists’ concerns appeared first on The Namibian.
