Windhoek: The ninth Zambezi Bream Festival and Cultural Expo 2026 was officially opened on Tuesday by Katima Mulilo Mayor Kabende Kabende, who urged visitors to engage with the town beyond the annual festivities by supporting local businesses and immersing themselves in regional culture.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the opening ceremony featured a street procession from the Soweto residential area to the Zambezi Waterfront and Tourism Park, the venue for the expo. In his address, Mayor Kabende emphasized the festival's significance for the youth of Katima Mulilo and the Zambezi Region, encouraging them to find opportunities locally rather than looking elsewhere.
Kabende assured attendees that the local authority is committed to fostering an inclusive economy with opportunities for all. He highlighted various sectors such as arts, entrepreneurship, and technology as areas with potential for growth and urged young people to consider these fields.
The mayor also emphasized the responsibility of local leadership in creating an environment that transforms local talent into sustainable livelihoods. He welcomed visitors from across Namibia and beyond to enjoy the local hospitality, cuisine, culture, and natural beauty, while also supporting local entrepreneurs.
The festival, featuring over 100 exhibitors, began on Sunday and will continue until 06 September 2026. It follows a successful fundraising gala dinner held last month, which raised N$355 700. During the dinner, Minister of Urban and Rural Development James Sankwasa, who served as the guest of honour, pledged N$10 000 and highlighted the importance of cultural roots, while expressing concern about the absence of an official anchor sponsor for this year's event.
Mayor Kabende used the occasion to call for collaboration among the public and private sectors, development partners, and citizens, stressing that every contribution is an investment in jobs, community development, and local businesses. The opening ceremony was attended by representatives from the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and local authority councillors.