Allexer Namundjembo
The City of Windhoek has denied claims that it paid South African artist Kelly Khumalo N$650,000 to perform at the Windhoek Jazz Festival.
However, it did not reveal how much was paid to the artist.
Khumalo has been accused in connection with the murder of her former boyfriend, football star Senzo Meyiwa.
Testimonies presented in a South African court last year alleged that she ordered Meyiwa’s killing.
The Windhoek Jazz Festival took place this weekend.
In an official statement, through the office of the executive officer Moses Matyayi, the municipality said the total budget for all performers at the upcoming Windhoek Jazz Festival is N$726,000.
Matyayi’s office said the amount covers performance fees for twelve acts, including six international and six local artists and bands.
The city said the festival operates as a self-funded event through sponsorships, ticket sales, and partnerships, not the municipality’s operational budget.
“The city’s direct contribution is limited to venue-related support,” the statement said.
The municipality said the Jazz Festival is an important investment in Windhoek’s cultural and economic development.
“The Windhoek Jazz Festival represents an important investment in our city’s cultural development and economic vitality,” the statement read. It added that the event creates opportunities for Namibian artists to share the stage with international acts while supporting local businesses in hospitality, tourism, and small enterprise.
“The City of Windhoek maintains separate budgeting processes for cultural events and essential service delivery, with the Jazz Festival specifically designed to be financially self-sustaining through its revenue model,” the statement said.
This follows criticism from a Katutura resident, Lisa Isaacs of Nama 10, who accused the municipality of spending large amounts on foreign performers at the festival.
Isaacs claimed in a video that the city had hired foreign musicians for N$650 000.
City spokesperson Lydia Amutenya confirmed that sewage maintenance has already started at Nama 10.
“Maintenance is happening as and when required,” she said, adding that she will provide the budgeted amount on Monday.
