New awards growing Namibian music beyond borders – Lifestyle

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.

The primary purpose of the new initiative, according to Ndume, is not to pit well-established celebrities against each other, but rather to develop new talent within the industry.

Ndume says over the years, many up-and-coming Namibian artists have suffered due to the lack of suitable platforms to promote themselves.

“Many artists have been working hard without being recognised because there were limited development platforms,” he says.

According to him, Ongoma was established to give young musicians confidence, exposure and practical industry experience, while also helping them earn from their talent.

The awards have already attracted attention beyond Namibia after organisers recently announced 87 nominees, including four international artists from Zambia and Angola.

The international nominees are Chile 84, Shady Starface, Leovan and Katindi.

Their inclusion has sparked conversations among music fans in the region and highlights the organisers’ vision of turning Ongoma into a regional platform that unites African artists.

Ndume says the awards are about more than trophies.

“Ongoma is about creating a platform where Namibians and other Africans can come together through creativity and music,” he notes.

Zambian artist Chile 84, whose song ‘Alira Wina’ has gained popularity among local music fans, describes the nomination as a sign of growing African unity in music.

“It is good to be recognised in Namibia because music brings people from different countries together,” he says.

The awards have received support from government leaders who believe the creative industry can create jobs and opportunities for young people.

Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge describes Ongoma as more than an awards ceremony, calling it “a movement” for the future of Namibia’s creative industry.

According to him, platforms such as Ongoma play a critical role in empowering young people and promoting the creative industry within the country.

Apart from celebrating music, Ndume says the awards aim to address social issues through categories such as best gender-based violence awareness song and best inspirational song with a message.

The inaugural Ongoma Music Awards are scheduled to take place on 29 August at the Ongwediva Multipurpose Centre.