Another N$5m for Alte Feste
The Ministry of Education, Arts and Culture has committed N$5 million towards phase 1 of the Alte Feste renovations, an initiative that aims to transform Windhoek's oldest landmarks into a vibrant cultural hub.This funding will support the initial stages of creating a Genocide Museum of Remembrance and a Centre of Excellence for arts and crafts, celebrating Namibian heritage and fostering community engagement.
Through a joint agreement with the Namibia Craft Centre, the ministry has not only committed financial resources but has also entrusted the Alte Feste as a national asset for re-purposing. This step underscores the ministry's dedication to preserving Namibia's heritage and promoting cultural education, economic growth and community empowerment.
The Namibia Arts, Craft and Design Centre, alongside the ministry, will oversee the project, breathing new life into the iconic building, which has been closed to the public since 2014. This N$5 million contribution complements the US Embassy's support of U$250 000 (around N$4.2 million) through the Ambassador's Cultural Preservation fund, marking a collaborative effort to honour Namibia's past while supporting local artisans and fostering artistic talent.
The re-purposed Alte Feste will feature a genocide museum, retail craft market, gallery space, courtyard event space and more.
This transformation will balance historical preservation with modern functionality, creating a landmark for both Namibians and international visitors.
The ministry's contribution highlights a shared vision for cultural development and reflects governmental support for initiatives that honour Namibia's history. Additional public and private sector partnerships are being pursued to ensure the project's long-term success.