MTC Windhoek Fashion Week opens with a celebration of Damara heritage

Immersive showpiece marks a great start to the week
A cultural showcase honouring Damara traditions has set a powerful, culturally rich tone for Namibia's biggest week in fashion.
Michael Kayunde
The ninth edition of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week was launched with vibrancy and cultural depth on Wednesday at Maerua Mall, marking the beginning of a much-anticipated week of fashion.
The opening showcase, titled ‘Trails of the Damara Horokhoes’, honoured the rich traditions and heritage of the Damara people, showcasing traditional attire steeped in cultural symbolism.
With a well-attended audience, the presentation was more than a display of fashion – it was an immersive celebration and demonstration of Damara culture.
Through this cultural showcase, attendees learned about various Damara outfits and their meanings, gaining insights into attire reserved for different occasions. The showcase highlighted the interplay between fashion and tradition, setting a thoughtful tone for the week ahead.
A panoply of fashion
The event continues with multiple showcases across various venues.
Today’s programme features collections by students from the College of the Arts, alongside international designers Nkanda Yatu from Zambia and K.Moraba & Collective from South Africa, all presenting their work at Maerua Mall.
Tomorrow, Independence Avenue will host Slot 6, spotlighting designs from College of the Arts students and the House of Poulton, while the final showcase, featuring Foxxy By Foxy Ginnah and SIRENGA, takes place at Maerua Mall’s P3 Parking on Saturday.
Since its inception in 2016, MTC Windhoek Fashion Week has established itself as a premier platform for local and international design, promoting Namibia’s fashion industry and cultural heritage.
This year’s theme emphasises accessibility and retailing, pushing the industry forward while staying grounded in Namibian roots.
The Damara Horokhoes opening has set a powerful, culturally rich tone for the rest of the week’s events.