Zambezi Bream Festival Kicks Off, Spotlighting Culture, Trade, and Tourism

Zambezi Bream Festival Kicks Off, Spotlighting Culture, Trade, and Tourism. The 8th Zambezi Bream Festival and Cultural Expo officially opened today, 6 August 2025, in Namibia’s Zambezi Region, bringing together community members, traders, and cultural ambassadors in celebration of local heritage and economic potential. The opening ceremony was officiated by Zambezi Regional Governor, Hon. Dorothy Kabula-Simushi, who emphasised the festival’s role in promoting trade, tourism, and cultural pride.

Held in Katima Mulilo, the annual event pays tribute to the region’s iconic Zambezi bream — a fish deeply rooted in local tradition, food security, and commerce. The Governor highlighted that the bream is not only a key food source but also a symbol of livelihoods for many families living along the Zambezi River.

Hon. Kabula-Simushi underscored the power of partnerships in unlocking regional economic growth. “When we collaborate — across sectors, across communities — we bring forth the full potential of the Zambezi Region,” she said. She praised the festival for positioning Katima Mulilo as a vibrant centre where culture and commerce thrive in unison.

The expo brings together various exhibitors from sectors including fisheries, agriculture, tourism, and crafts. It also features cultural showcases, traditional food tasting, and live performances — offering a platform for local entrepreneurs and artisans to network, market, and grow their businesses.

As the festival unfolds over the coming days, it is expected to attract both local and international visitors, strengthening the region’s appeal as a destination where Namibia’s natural beauty and cultural richness intersect.