Search begins for next kapana champion
Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off launched
Nedbank Namibia announced the much anticipated ninth edition of its kapana cook-off. This competition series not only showcases the finest culinary talents but also serves as a powerful catalyst for fostering entrepreneurship across our country.With a steadfast commitment to supporting Namibian entrepreneurship and cuisine, Nedbank Namibia has invested N$3 million in hosting this remarkable competition since its inception in 2014. The kapana cook-off has swiftly emerged as a beacon of hope for budding entrepreneurs, providing them with an invaluable platform to flourish.
In a time-honoured tradition, the series kicked off with a cook-off between numerous media houses. Fifteen journalist teams ignited their open fires, eagerly vying for the prestigious title of Nedbank Kapana Media 2023 team.
This year, the preliminary rounds of the competition start on 24 June with the Northern Round in Oshakati; the Coastal Round on 8 July in Walvis Bay; and the Central Round on 5 August in Windhoek. Three contestants will be selected from each round to participate in the finals on 26 August at the Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair.
To enter, chefs can visit their nearest Nedbank branch for application forms or apply online at www.nedbanknambia.com.
Speaking at the media event, Nedbank’s Namibia Communication and PR Manager Selma Kaulinge said that this year, the grand prize is a mobile food kitchen worth N$100 000, a Nedbank account with N$10 000 and a Bakpro Vetkoek voucher to the value of N$5 000.
“The second prize winner will receive a Nedbank account with N$7 000 and a Bakpro Vetkoek voucher to the value of N$3 000, while the third prize winner will receive a Nedbank account with N$5 000 and a Bakpro Vetkoek voucher to the value of N$2 000.”
For the pros
Nedbank also announced that a Professional Chef Round would be held on 4 August in Windhoek at Soweto Market. To qualify in this round, the person must have a formal chef qualification or training and work experience in the food industry.
For this round, the first place prize is a Nedbank account with N$10 000 and professional assistance to develop the kapana section of the chef’s menu. Second and third place will receive a Nedbank account with N$7 000 and N$5 000 respectively.
Kaulinge said that Bakpro is a co-sponsor of the Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off. “Since vetkoek and kapana go together so well, it only makes sense to collaborate with the company that boasts of baking the best vetkoek in the country.”
The Nedbank Kapana Cook-off started as a small, local event as part of activities when Nedbank Namibia opened its new branch in Ongwediva in 2014. Since then, Nedbank Namibia has continuously invested in the competition, and these investments stretch beyond mere tokenism.
“By partnering with like-minded organisations such as Bakpro, Agra Namibia and the Namibia Chefs Association, we wish to give credence to this uniquely Namibian delicacy and grow its popularity beyond its current societal confines,” Kaulinge concluded.
This year, The Brief was crowned the Nedbank Kapana Media 2023 Team, while Touch FM won the Best Dressed/Team Spirit Award.