Zambezi Bream Festival kicks-off celebrating culture and local economies

By Fanus  Johani

Zambezi Bream Festival and Cultural Expo 2025 , officially opened on Wednesday, August 6 at the scenic Zambezi Waterfront Tourism Park in Katima Mulilo, bringing together community members, business leaders, and cultural groups to celebrate heritage and promote economic collaboration.

Officiating the event, the Zambezi Regional Governor, Hon. Dorothy Kabula described the festival as a key platform to unite the community while showcasing the region’s cultural and economic strengths.

This year’s festival is held under the theme “Empowering Local Economies through Business Collaboration,” this event aims to foster partnerships that drive sustainable growth and inclusive development.

Zambezi Governor highlighted the importance of such events in opening trade opportunities, supporting small and medium enterprises, and promoting domestic tourism. She emphasized that progress is best achieved when communities, businesses, and institutions work together.

She also praised the Katima Mulilo Town Council for its role in turning the annual festival into a celebrated tradition.

According to her, the event is more than entertainment; it’s a reflection of the region’s identity where music, dance, food, and storytelling blend to create a meaningful cultural experience.

A central symbol of the festival is the Zambezi bream fish, which the governor described as a key part of both the local diet and economy. She noted that whether served fresh, dried, grilled, or smoked, the bream represents home, tradition, and livelihoods for many households in the region.

She however, pointed out that the festival provides a valuable opportunity for artisans, farmers, cooks, and performers particularly women and youth to showcase their talents and generate income. Events like this, she said, strengthen community pride and create space for innovation, investment, and long-term economic impact.

In her closing message, the governor called on business leaders, stakeholders, and development partners to continue supporting the festival throughout the year. She urged the youth to take advantage of platforms like these to sharpen their future and encouraged small businesses to use the opportunity to grow and connect with wider markets.

“To our youth this is your moment. To our SMEs use this platform to grow, connect, and expand. I extend my sincere appreciation to our local leaders, festival sponsors, churches, NGOs, and the media for their unwavering support in making this event a success.”  Explained Zambezi Governor

Appreciation was also extended to local leaders, sponsors, churches, NGOs, and media for their roles in making the festival a success.

Honourable governor concluded by reaffirming her support for the Zambezi Bream Festival and Cultural Expo, expressing hope that it will continue to grow, empower communities, and share the unique story of the region with the rest of Namibia and the world.

“Let this festival remind us that our diversity should not divide us, but rather strengthen our unity and enrich our shared purpose “She concluded.

END…