The Otjomuise Live Arts Festival (OLAF) returns for its fifth edition from 31 October to 1 November 2025, bringing two days of free live performances, storytelling, music, and dance to the Zoo Park in central Windhoek. Themed “A Garden of Expression: Cultivating Community Through the Arts,” the festival continues to transform public spaces into vibrant cultural stages.

“This year’s theme explores nurturing artists and planting seeds of creativity for a blossoming artistic scene in Windhoek,” said Michelle Namases, the festival co-director. OLAF is co-produced by the Goethe-Institut Namibia and the National Theatre of Namibia (NTN), with support from the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) and media partner Energy 100 FM.

Greta Gasper from NACN said the festival’s community-centred approach aligns with the council’s mission to support sustainable arts. “OLAF reminds us that creativity needs time, care, and collaboration to thrive,” she said.

Desiree Mentor, spokeperson at NTN, reflected on OLAF’s origins during the Covid-19 pandemic. “It began as a way to keep the arts alive in open spaces. Now, it’s become a joyful, inclusive celebration open to all,” she reflected.

The programme is split over two themed days: Planting the Seeds and “Full Bloom”, featuring acts such as Steven Afrikaner, Zingerwings, Frogman K, and headliner Tapz, who shared that “It’s my first-time headlining OLAF. It’s pressure, but it’s also an exciting milestone for my band.”

Stage manager Fillemon Ndongo emphasised the importance of public expression.  “OLAF creates a safe space where artists can truly be seen,” he said.

Artist ORI described her performance as a reflection on collective loss and healing, urging audiences to experience the emotional depth behind each piece.

OLAF is open to everyone. No tickets, no gates, just people, stories and shared creativity.

-isipunga@nepc.com.na