The Otjomuise Live Arts Festival (Olaf) has been transforming the city’s cultural landscape through the universal language of dance.

Now in its fourth year, the edition started on Wednesday ending on Saturday and brought a variety of dance performances, workshops and interactive showcases to public spaces around the city. 

This year’s festival featured 14 diverse performances, which are all free and open to the public, making dance accessible to everyone, and highlighting its ability to unite communities.

Olaf director Stanley Mareka said dance contributes to social cohesion and cultural exchange.

“Dance is a language on its own – and in Windhoek, it has given young people the confidence to express themselves and connect with their roots. Through dance, they discover a sense of identity and belonging,” he said, adding that dance in Windhoek is more than just a performance art.

“It is a way for people to communicate stories, preserve traditions and foster unity,” he said.

This year’s Olaf Move! Edition shed light on how dance shapes the city’s cultural landscape, featuring a wide range of performances that highlight the incredible diversity within Namibian dance. 

From traditional genres to contemporary styles, the festival offered an opportunity for local artists to share their stories through movement, making dance accessible to all.

“One of the core elements of dance’s cultural impact is its ability to bridge generational gaps. From seasoned performers to young, emerging artists, dance unites people across age groups and cultural backgrounds,” said Mareka.

The award-winning dancer said this is a platform for new talent to grow while honouring the traditions and styles that have been passed down through generations.

The diversity in Windhoek is mirrored through the varied dance styles seen at events like Olaf, where performances range from contemporary to pantsula. 

This fusion of styles highlights how different communities can come together through shared artistic experiences, encouraging mutual respect and understanding.

Nelago Shilongoh, the festival co-director, noted that the festival’s mission is not only to entertain but also to create meaningful cultural exchanges within Windhoek. 

“We wanted to show that dance is a tool for cultural expression that can inspire innovation and provide a deeper understanding of Namibia’s evolving artistic scene,” she said.

She added that as Windhoek continues to evolve, dance remains a key aspect of its cultural transformation. 

“The Olaf is helping to shape this future by bringing dance into public spaces, where it can be appreciated and celebrated by all,” she emphasised.

“Dance not only enriches the city’s cultural landscape but also nurtures a sense of community, pride and shared identity among its people,” she said.