A large gathering of colourful cultural groups marked the National Cultural Festival earlier this month where joyous singing and dancing carried on for two days. The event was organised by the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture.

The cream of more than 60 cultural groups from all 13 regions dazzled the sprawling audience at the 18th edition of the national cultural festival with classical displays.

This multi-cultural event ended on a high note at the Katutura Youth Complex in Windhoek despite the cancellation of some cultural groups' scheduled performances due to striking drivers not taking performers to the venue on the second day of the event.

The many groups exhibited colourful Namibian fashion, music, dance, food, clothes, traditional medicine, drama, arts and crafts that all contributed to promote national unity through shared values. The festival with its cultural diversity, was a major milestone in fostering respect and peace and in building a vibrant, prosperous and healthy community.

People in the audience were almost unanimous in their appreciation. "The cultural groups added to the magnificence of the event to promote Namibia's cultural heritage. The cultures of the many communities are unique and vibrant in celebrating the arts and culture of the country."