Zebaldt Ngaruka
The Opuwo Youth Choir maintains its strong performance at the Africa Asia Pacific Choir Games, securing two medals at the competition in Port Louis, Mauritius.
About 53 choirs from 14 countries are participating in this prestigious global event.
The African Asia Pacific Choir Games started on 27 September and will conclude on Sunday.
During the first stage of competition, the choir, which hails from the Kunene region, shone bright and advanced to the next level of the competition. On Tuesday, the choir collected a gold medal in the Open Competition category and a silver medal in the Grand Prix of Nations.
In the Open Competition category, South Africa’s Paul Roos Gymnasium choir took the overall award, followed by Namibia’s Opuwo Youth Choir and Mauritius’ choir, which came in third place. Bulgaria’s Vocal Ensemble Fortissimo choir won the overall and gold awards for finishing first in the Grand Prix of Nations.
It was challenged by Opuwo Youth Choir in second place, who received a silver medal.
Speaking to VIBEZ on Wednesday, Mbaseua Tjongarero, the choir founder and music director, expressed excitement and pride over the choir’s achievement in Mauritius.
“We are indeed happy to put the name of our country, Namibia, on the world map. Winning amongst the best singers from various parts of the world is indeed a remarkable achievement and will be documented in the history of the country and Namibia at large,” Tjongarero said.
He said the achievement at the event inspired young people from remote areas in Namibia.
“These young people showed dedication and passion. These will take them to greater heights. Many of the choir members are from less privileged backgrounds. This victory is a breakthrough for them,” he said.
The music conductor said they dedicated these medals to all Namibians and supporters across Africa and beyond.
“We are not yet done, and we are competing in a final category called the Youth Category. Here, we will be going head-to-head today with top choirs from Kenya and China. We are eyeing to finish strong as well,” he proudly said.
Tjongarero acknowledged the support from Hizembi Kamatuka, who arranged affordable lodging in Mauritius despite financial difficulties.
He acknowledged the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture; the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia; Opuwo Town Council; Macedonia Parish; friends from Germany; Lindholm of Africa; members of Parliament; the College of Arts; the National Arts Council of Namibia, and supporters of the Opuwo Youth Choir for their generous support.