Vote for your favourite ‘MyNamibia’ song

The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (MICT) in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture are spearheading and coordinating the ‘My Namibia Song’ SMS competition

In September 2017, the MICT launched the ‘My Namibia Song’ competition and called on Namibian artists to compose and produce songs titled ‘My Namibia’ in order to build national pride and unity regardless of cultural differences. “You may recall these songs – during our 29th independence anniversary that was held in the Khomas region,we had two songs that embraced unity and patriotism that were choreographed and performed by various local artists,” Minister of information and communication technology Stanley Simataa said. While the winning song will in no way replace the national anthem, Simataa said he hopes it bolsters a feeling of national pride.“The national anthem is supreme but the winning song will complement it. It is less formal. A song which is jovial, a song that will invoke patriotism,” he said. The competing songs will be played on local radio and television stations as well as on social media, to allow Namibians to vote for their favourite. “For one to participate in the SMS competition, they must SMS their favourite song, for example, S01 or S02to 33033. Each SMS costs N$2,” he said. The competition started on 11 June and will run until 2 July. “During this period, the songs will be played on all NBC platforms – both TV and radio, One Africa TV, Radio Energy, 99 FM, Fresh FM and Omulunga Radio and they will also be accessible on all social media platforms,”Simatta said. Simataa said those who vote stand a chance of winning one of five regional air tickets, courtesy of AirNamibia. Artists who lent their voices to either one or both of the songs are Hishishi Papa, Ras Sheehama, Erna Chimu,Jericho, Female Donkey, Tate Buti, Bertholdt, Adora, Sunny Boy, Desmond, Ann Singer, Lady May Africa, and many more. Singer referred to working on the songs as a great experience. “I am humbled and blessed to have had an opportunity to work with very talented and legendary artists. I would like to advise Namibians to please vote.You now have the right to give your decision. Your vote is your voice,” she said. Singer is also excited about the fact that the project brings different artists together. “In the history of Namibian music, I don’t think we have had any collaboration with such a huge number of artists on one song. I am really excited and happy to have been part of the revolution. Unity is key and has the potential to build the music industry,” she said. For more information and to watch videos for both songs, look for My Namibia, My Country, My Pride – NNP Campaign on Facebook and stay tuned to local radio and television stations