Acknowledging Kavango artists
Acknowledging Kavango artists

Acknowledging Kavango artists

Michael Kayunde
Windhoek • [email protected]

Kavango music culture has grown so much that an award ceremony, the Kavango Music Awards (Kama), has been created to recognise the achievements of artists contributing to its development.
The list of nominees was recently shared by the organisers and music fans can now vote for their favourite artists for the three-day event, scheduled for 19 to 21 June at the Rundu Trade Fare Hall.
Founded by Isa Saidi, the Kama organisational team comprises of five other members who serve as marketing, finance, operations and public relations directors.
“Kama is basically a dream that Isa shared and wanted to bring to life, inspired by the great talent in the Kavango regions that has been side-lined for years,” said Magdalena Haingura, the public relations officer.
Haingura added that after the official launch of the awards, the idea has been embraced by the music community, stating that it has received attention from the Namibian Society of Composer and Authors of Music (Nascam), the office of the governor and the media. “It was an overwhelming feeling seeing a dream being lived but bigger than we expected.
“The feeling of growth and expectation keeps encouraging us to make this event one that will forever be remembered in the Kavango regions and Namibia at large,” Haingura said.
On the nomination process, Haigura mentioned that artists sent in application forms and were screened for eligibility. This vetting process did not involve the public or any artists. “After that, their music and videos were sent to a panel who listened to the music and came up with the categories suitable for the entered track.”
There are two ways to vote for your favourite artist: Online and via SMS.
“SMS voting is charged at N$3 for both networks. Fans should follow us on social media as well as follow their respective artists for the links and their SMS codes,” said Haingura.
Though Kama has the information ministry, Rapids FM, Nascam, P. Shitembi CC, Biggies Lounge and Muharwa Guesthouse as sponsors, organisers are still appealing to other sponsors to come on board.
“We are seeking for corporates and individuals willing to sponsor an award in exchange for advertising mileage and hope to get positive responses from those we have approached thus far. We are stressing more on award sponsors since we have decided on giving N$5 000 as cash prize per award, excluding the bigger awards like male and female artist of the year,” said Haingura.




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Namibian Sun 2025-03-28

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