MTC concert sets attendance record; banishes security fears

Musa Zimunya

WINDHOEK, 13 AUG – MTC believes success was two-fold during the recent 081EVERY1FEST, asserting that a new stadium attendance record was set, at the same time demonstrating that functions held at Sam Nujoma Stadium – in the heart of high-density location Katutura – are NOT a security risk.

A statement released earlier today described the concert as ” (the) first of its kind in the Namibian music industry, which surpassed all expectations by recording an overwhelming attendance of music lovers at the Sam Nujoma Stadium.”

The concert was laden with both local and continental acts that kept the crowd on their feet dancing throughout.

Regarding security, the statement read: “with the strong presence of tight security at the venue, the festival demystified the security myth surrounding the stadium.”

The reason behind the 081Every1Fest concert was to fund raise for charity, aimed towards the alleviation and lessening the burden of homelessness in Namibia. The proceeds arising from the concert are meant for the Shack Dwellers Federation of Namibia through the Buy a Brick Initiative of commercial bank Standard Bank.

Tim Ekandjo, Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs, and also the Festival director, said the Festival was a resounding success, as thousands of people from around the country got a taste of local and international performances on the day.

“Nothing gave us greater joy, then seeing the Sam Nujoma Stadium (an iconic building named after
a revered Namibian who fought for the prosperity of all Namibia) filled to the brim with mostly
young Namibians – who through the expressive form of art, came to support a cause which is worthy,
noble and empowering to the less fortunate,” said Ekandjo.

He explained that owning a home is a liberating feeling and expressed gratitude to Namibians who came to the
show.

“We are truly humbled. Putting this show together was no easy task but we knew that the cause if far greater than anything else. The event was a sound success and we are thankful to the public for having joined us to celebrate together. Equally so, we are grateful to all of the sponsors who came on board to make the 081Every1Fest one of the highly celebrated and appreciated music festival.”

He further thanked the Namibian Police, City Police and all security officers for a “commendable job to control and maintain safety at the stadium.”

In addition Ekandjo said: “It will be an injustice not to mention our profound gratitude to the President Hage Geingob, Vice President Nangolo Mbumba and Madam Geingob to have accepted our invitation.”

The event was co-sponsored by Standard Bank Namibia, Otesa, My Namibia My Pride Campaign, NDTC, CSS Tactical Security, the Namibian, Air Namibia, Kunene Civil Projects, Sure Ritz Travel, World Master, MTL, and Buy a Brick Initiative. – musa@namibiadailynews.info