Eugenia Moche
The Namibian Annual Music Awards (NAMAs), one of the country’s most celebrated cultural events, has officially entered a new chapter as Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC) announced the transfer of all intellectual property, copyright, audio, and visual material associated with the awards to the ministry of education, innovation, youth, sport, arts and culture (MEIYSAC).
This handover marks the end of MTC’s and the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) decade-long and proudly supported management of the awards.
Over ten years, MTC played a pivotal role in elevating the platform into the most respected celebration of musical excellence, not only in Namibia but across the African continent.
Since concluding its sponsorship in 2019, MTC has continued to support the growth and sustainability of the local industry.
The handover demonstrates MTC’s lasting dedication to preserving and promoting Namibia’s cultural and artistic heritage.
By giving all associated intellectual property and archival materials, MTC aims to ensure the awards remain accessible and continue future developments under public management.
In a press release issued yesterday, MTC’s Chief Brand, Marketing, Communication and Sustainability Officer Tim Ekandjo said: “MTC is immensely proud of the role we have played in shaping and growing the Namibian Annual Music Awards over the years. Our decade-long sponsorship helped create a powerful platform for artists, and we are delighted to see the awards enter a new and exciting phase under the leadership of the Ministry of Education and Culture.”
Ekandjo revealed that MTC and its co-sponsors invested more than N400 million.
MEIYSAC announced that it will assume full responsibility for the awards moving forward.
The ministry’s stewardship is expected to strengthen institutional support for the creative sector and broaden the awards’ national and international impact.
MTC expressed confidence that the ministry will build on the strong foundation established over the years, ensuring the continued recognition and promotion of musical talent across the country.
“We are encouraged by the Ministry’s commitment to advancing the arts and culture landscape. This transition reflects a shared vision of empowering artists and preserving Namibia’s rich musical legacy for generations to come,” said Ekandjo.
MTC extended heartfelt gratitude to the artists, partners, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the NAMAs during its tenure as sponsor, and looks forward to witnessing the awards’ continued growth in the future.
As Namibia’s music industry evolves, the transfer of the NAMAs to MEIYSAC represents a significant milestone in Namibia’s cultural journey.
It is a testament to MTC’s vision and investment, and a promising sign of the Ministry’s commitment to advancing the arts.
For artists, audiences, and the broader creative community, this transition offers renewed hope and opportunity.
The NAMAs, now under public management, are set to continue their legacy as a beacon of musical excellence, ensuring that Namibia’s cultural heritage is celebrated and preserved for generations to come.
