A jazz and blues concert, a dancing competition, as well as a vintage style ‘Disco Under the Stars’ are among the activities organised by TransNamib as it celebrates Heritage Week in Namibia this week.
Coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the TransNamib Museum, this special week starts today and ends Sunday under the theme ‘Heritage and Culture: A Rock-Solid Foundation’.
It is organised in collaboration with the Museum Association of Namibia.
Webster Gonzo, the acting chief executive officer of TransNamib, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Heritage Week celebrations.
“I am delighted to announce that we have a series of activities lined up. Heritage Week is an important part of our diverse cultures, and we look forward to a fun-filled week. I encourage the public to join our fun day and immerse themselves during Heritage Week,” he noted.
The TransNamib Museum, which has been a cornerstone of Namibian heritage preservation for the past 30 years, primarily focuses on chronicling the evolution of the country’s railway
system.
It serves as both an educational institution and a cultural landmark, offering valuable insights into Namibia’s history. The museum has gained popularity among tourists and locals alike and is poised to maintain its significance for years to come.
Gonzo highlighted the diverse cultural heritage of Namibia and invited the public to participate in the festivities.
The celebrations kick off with a hybrid panel discussion titled ‘Heritage and Culture: A Rock Solid Foundation in the Era of Digitalisation’ that will take place aboard the Desert Express at the Windhoek Train Station today. Participating speakers include academic scholars and public service professionals in humanities and natural sciences, committed to broadening heritage and culture in the era of technology.
From tomorrow to Thursday, visitors will have the opportunity to partake in free guided museum tours, offering deeper insights into the history of Namibia’s railways.
On Friday, a vintage style ‘Disco Under the Stars’ will be held, followed by a vibrant street parade on Saturday which will feature antique vehicles and the Katutura groomed brass band, alongside TransNamib staff.
The TransNamib Palm Tree Park will serve as the hub of activities on Saturday, hosting inter-departmental competitions in dancing, dominos, chess, owela, and darts.
On Sunday, the NBC will broadcast a live jazz and blues show from the same venue.
In a special tribute, TransNamib will honour Walter Rusch, the pioneer and co-founder of the TransNamib Museum and a key figure in heritage conservation and management. Rusch’s contributions have earned him recognition both locally and internationally.