WALVIS BAY – Plans are underway for a Namib Desert International Jazz Festival in the desert next year, which will bring local and international artists together.
The initiative constitutes a three-way partnership between individuals and organisations in Namibia, South Africa, and Germany in a classic joint venture and seeks to position an iconic jazz brand in the oldest desert on Earth.
Given this, residents and tourists on board the MSC Splendid Cruise Ship were treated to a preview last week in Walvis Bay during the launch of the festival at the beachfront restaurant Rojos.
Speaking during the launch, one of the partners, Clenrence Ford said foundations for the festival have been laid over a long time.
According to Ford, an annual Jazz Cruise from Cape Town Harbour to Walvis Bay has enabled 3 000 people onboard annually over the past 10 years. Hence, they want to capitalise and collaborate with MSC Cruises, as such an event will attract more tourists to the town and translate to economic benefits for its residents.
“In collaboration with MSC Cruises, this cruise will now dock in Walvis Bay harbour (from 2025 onwards) for two nights, enabling people onboard to participate in the proposed desert event. In March 2025, the ship MSC Musica will serve as a floating hotel for 2 500 people in Walvis Bay harbour,” he explained.
He said the idea is to make use of local bands and instrumentalists instead of international artists coming with their bands. Local bands can put such events on their resumes for future jobs and gigs.
The organisers plan to stimulate international, regional, and local tourism as a primary objective and position the Namib Desert as an iconic location within the African continent.
“With private sector partners already on board, we now seek to familiarise all layers of government with the opportunity. Our vision is the creation of an annual international event in an iconic location. In the process, we believe we will deliver a new Mecca for jazz lovers from all over the world,” he said during the launch.
Managing director of MSC Cruises, Ross Volk said they support the idea and are keen on integrating it into their schedule.
“We are going to support that initiative by bringing the vessel again allowing you to stay on board and attend the festival. However, our schedule is set for 2025, but we will have to see how we can make some possible changes to include the festival,” he said.
Also speaking at the launch, Walvis Bay mayor Trevino Forbes said the town is looking at diversifying revenue streams that will not only enhance tourism but also create opportunities for residents. “We welcome initiatives such as these as Walvis Bay is positioned not only to become a logistic hub, but we want the tourism sector to grow also with this vision,” he said.
– edeklerk@nepc.com.na