Government will spare no expense when it rolls out the proverbial red carpet for its high-profile international guests this weekend, during which champagne costing N$1 000 a bottle will be served at a State banquet.

The dignitaries will include Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe and his South African counterpart Jacob Zuma.

According to the official programme for the weekend's festivities, at least 15 heads of state or their representatives are expected to arrive in Windhoek between 14h00 and 17h00 on Saturday afternoon.

It is unknown whether these invited guests will make a brief turn at the gospel concert at the Independence Arena at 18h30 before heading towards the flagship function - a sit-down gala dinner at the prestigious Safari Hotel.

President-elect Hifikepunye Pohamba and his wife Penehupifo will be the hosts at this event, which promises to be nothing short of lavish.

It is understood that about 800 people will be treated to fillet of silver angelfish and fish terrine served with a prawn skewer on a bed of lettuce. This starter will be rounded off with a Mary Rose sauce.

All the stops are pulled out with the main course of this finely crafted menu. Guests will be able to treat their palates to fillets of beef and oryx, accompanied by chicken cordon bleu on a bed of mashed potatoes served with a carrot and green bean bundle.

Should there still be space on their plates, the delegation can enjoy a phyllo pastry basket with creamy mushroom spinach and cranberry sauce.

The Namibian understands that Pohamba and his guests will have the option to quench their thirst with very expensive French champagne.

Those dignitaries with a sweet tooth will conclude the evening on a high note: delectable Austrian dessert served with berry coulis and garnished with segments of fresh fruit, before heading to bed to be ready for an almost 10-hour programme on Sunday during which President Pohamba, the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister will be sworn in.