Namibia Awards N$1.25 Million to 28 Artists Through National Arts Fund

Namibia Awards N$1.25 Million to 28 Artists Through National Arts FFund. The Namibian government has allocated more than N$1.25 million through the National Arts Fund to support 28 artists and creative practitioners, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening the country’s arts and cultural sector.

The funding announcement was made by the Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Hon. Dr. Sanet L. Steenkamp, during the presentation of the successful National Arts Fund applicants.

Steenkamp praised the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) for its ongoing efforts to support, develop and promote the nation’s creative industry, describing each grant as an investment in artistic talent and cultural expression.

“Every grant awarded today represents an investment in a dream, an idea, a story waiting to be told and a creative voice that contributes to Namibia’s rich cultural heritage,” she said.

The funding follows a transparent and competitive assessment process. Under the second funding cycle, 25 beneficiaries received a combined N$1.12 million. An additional three beneficiaries were funded during the first cycle, receiving N$132,066.27.

Together, the two funding rounds bring the total allocation for the current financial year to N$1,254,092.86, benefiting 28 recipients across the country.

Steenkamp said the funding reflects the government’s broader vision of recognising creativity as more than a form of cultural expression.

According to the minister, the aim is to position the creative sector as a driver of education, innovation, economic opportunity, national unity and sustainable development.

“Our vision is clear, a Namibia where creativity is recognised not only as cultural expression, but also as a catalyst for education, innovation, economic opportunity, national unity and sustainable development,” she said.