Okahandja youth festival faces criticism over lack of youth
The Okahandja Youth Festival, held from 31 July to 4 August has come under fire from residents for failing to live up to being a showcase for youth talent and culture.
Local community members expressed their dissatisfaction at the recently concluded Okahandja Youth Festival, questioning the event's organisation and true purpose.One anonymous resident, who spoke to Windhoek Express, voiced his disappointment, stating, "The Okahandja Youth Festival is a nice idea, but here is no creativity. Is it not for the youth to showcase their talent and not just braai? Where are our own tribal things? Why Chinese? We must know of the past and the future. We have more drinking stalls. Can there be an end to the alcohol stalls?"
The lack of cultural diversity and the presence of alcohol stalls were highlighted as major concerns. Many residents felt that the festival should have been an opportunity for the youth to display their talent and for the community to celebrate their unique cultural heritage. The presence of commercial vendors, including those selling alcohol, overshadowed these goals.
Nicole Coetzee (17), one of the stall owners, provided another perspective. She acknowledged the festival's potential, saying, "The youth festival is a good initiative. They must just have it during the whole day as it was a struggle to come to the stall during the week after school."
As the dust settles on the festival, there is a call for a re-evaluation of the event's focus and organisation. Community members and stakeholders are urging the organisers to consider a more youth-focused approach that highlights local culture and talent, ensuring future events better reflect the community's values and aspirations.