The Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture (MoEAC) on Wednesday announced that it has entered into an agreement with the Namibia Craft Centre to transform the Alte Feste.
The partnership seeks to revitalise the historic building, which will boast a museum, chronicling its history, a craft market, an art gallery, training workshops, art studios, a restaurant/cafe, a courtyard space for events, and offices upon completion.
The Alte Feste is the oldest existing building in Windhoek, with a deep cultural history, dating back to 1890. It carries great historic significance; hence, the US Embassy Fund for Cultural Preservation will be injecting US$250 000 into the transformation project.
Speaking at the launch event for the renovation and repurposing project for the Alte Feste, supported by the US embassy, Deputy Minister of Education, Arts and Culture Faustina Caley remarked: “The renovations we embark upon today are not merely about refurbishing walls or installing modern amenities. They are about reimagining the museum experience, making it more engaging, inclusive and educational. We envision a space that sparks curiosity, fosters learning and fosters a deeper appreciation for our heritage”.
The deputy minister further said that in the coming months, as the renovations progress, the nation will witness the transformation of the historic site into a beacon of cultural enrichment.
“New exhibits will be curated, incorporating cutting-edge technology to bring history to life in ways previously unimaginable,” Caley said.
Also speaking at the launch event, US Ambassador to Namibia Randy Berry said: “Heritage preservation allows us to work closely with our international partners to affirm our respect for other cultures. The ambassador’s fund for cultural preservation successfully demonstrates our government’s commitment to preserving not only our heritage but the heritage of others”.
The renovation project will be done in stages, with the first phase focusing on stabilising the structure and making it functional for diverse activities.
Meanwhile, the Namibia Craft Centre will be hosting a corporate breakfast in the next few weeks with corporate Namibia in an effort to raise more funds for the renovation project. - Nampa