Grants awarded to the arts
The National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) announced the successful applicants for the 2024 Cycle Two grant disbursement. After a thorough selection process, fifteen projects have been awarded funding totalling N$521 624.30.Despite challenges, especially during times of limited resources, the NACN remains committed to its quarterly disbursement approach to ensure consistent support.
From 98 applications, 15 were chosen for their potential to enrich the arts and culture scene. The NACN's funding strategy alleviates financial burdens, enabling efficient resource management across disciplines including craft, dance, fashion, literature, multidiscipline, music, theatre, and visual arts.
The 15 beneficiaries are:
Hardap: Philippine Keister – Fashion design; Magdalena Gomachas – Fashion design; Franzina Hochobes – Fashion design;
//Kharas: Priska Hikoam – Fashion design
Kavango East: Home of the Arts – Theatre
Khomas: Omidi Creative House – Multi-disciplinary arts; The Reformation Cantata – Music; UNAM Press – Literature; Nicoltine Schaller – Visual arts; Ehi Land/Sand Rites-Group – Visual arts; Lineekela Mukwendje – Visual Arts; Namjive Investments CC – Music;!Haos Xuna ≠An – Fashion design
Kunune: Opuwo Town Council – Music
Otjozondjpa: Thandeka Hungua – Fashion Design
Next round now open
As the 2024/2025 Cycle 3 grant call approaches, opening on 13 August and closing on 13 September 2024, the NACN encourages artists to apply. To qualify, projects must address at least one of the following key focus areas:
• Social protection and research
• Highlighting marginalized and Indigenous arts in rural regions
• Tackling social issues such as unemployment and gender-based violence
• Promoting the involvement of women, youth employment opportunities, and people with disabilities
• Creating new works through digital media
• Capacity building and arts entrepreneurship
These focus areas aim to foster a diverse and inclusive artistic environment. The NACN is committed to creating platforms for creative practitioners to thrive through ongoing advocacy sessions and an improved application process. We look forward to the significant impact these projects will have on Namibia's artistic landscape.