The City of Windhoek is hosting its first annual kapana festival under the theme ‘Savour Local’, as a celebration of Namibia’s culinary heritage.
The event, which is being held at the municipality’s offices along Independence Avenue, kicked off on Friday and continues on Saturday.
Entry is free for all.
City of Windhoek spokesperson Lydia Amutenya says the festival promises a cultural and culinary journey that highlights Namibia’s rich heritage through its street food, kapana.
“The festival is set to take place from 10h00 to 23h00. This event will showcase Namibia’s dynamic food traditions, from sizzling beef to flavourful local salsas. With Windhoek’s unique blend of cultures and traditions, the festival offers an ideal setting for people to enjoy local flavours, celebrate cultural diversity and foster social unity,” she says.
Amutenya further says the festival gives visitors the platform to experience the city’s meat-loving culture.
The organisers decided on kapana because the traditional open-fire grilled meat holds a special place in Namibian hearts – with kapana rooted in the country’s identity as a top beef producer, particularly in the Khomas, Otjozondjupa and Omaheke regions, she notes.
“The festival features an array of mouthwatering kapana-style dishes, traditional sides, and drinks from both established and upcoming vendors.
The festival also aims to promote inclusivity, with diverse options such as mutton, chicken, fish and even vegan alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.”
Other activities include live music by Tate Buti, Adora, Yeezir and DJ Siya, a kapana cooking competition and corporate and community stands.
“Vendors will compete to be crowned the best kapana chef, with guests invited to sample and vote for their favourites,” she says.
According to Amutenya, the festival provides an invaluable opportunity to support small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs.
“We believe the festival will drive culinary tourism, boost short-term employment and circulate funds within the community, supporting livelihoods and enriching Windhoek’s vibrant central business district,” Amutenya adds
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