City denies paying Khumalo N$650 000 for jazz gig

The City of Windhoek has dismissed claims circulating on social media alleging that South African artist Kelly Khumalo was paid N$650 000 to perform at this year’s Windhoek Jazz Festival, describing the information as false and misleading. In a statement issued over the weekend, the municipality clarifies that the total combined cost for all artists performing at the 2025 Windhoek Jazz Festival amounts to N$726 000. This figure, it says, includes payments made directly to some artists by sponsors and partners. “Contrary to false claims circulating online, artist Kelly Khumalo was not paid N$650 000,” the municipality says. It says the festival, which took place over the weekend, is self-funded through sponsorships, ticket sales, and strategic partnerships – not municipal rates or taxes. “The city’s financial contribution is limited to venue-related support, ensuring ratepayers are not responsible for the event’s operational costs,” it says. According to the statement, the 2025 edition of the festival featured 12 acts, evenly split between six local and six international performers. “The festival continues to play a vital socio-economic role by stimulating the local economy, supporting small and medium enterprises, and generating revenue across the hospitality, tourism, and transport sectors,” the statement reads. “Namibian musicians are always prioritised in the line-up,” it says. “The Windhoek Jazz Festival remains a strategic platform for showcasing and advancing Namibian musical talent.” While acknowledging residents’ right to raise concerns, the municipality urges the public to verify information before sharing it online. “We encourage the public to rely on verified information and refrain from circulating inaccurate statements that may mislead the community or damage the reputation of the city and its partners,” it says. Earlier this year, the City of Windhoek announced that South African jazz legend Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse would headline the 2025 Windhoek Jazz Festival, leading a line-up that blended both local and international talent. At the launch, mayor Ndeshihafela Larandja said the annual event had evolved beyond a musical showcase to become a symbol of creativity, diversity, and unity expressed through jazz. “Jazz embodies freedom, innovation, and collaboration, values that align perfectly with our vision for Windhoek as a progressive and inclusive city,” she said at the time. The line-up included Namibian performers Bongani Soul, Sigera Jazz, Swinger Jazz Band, Ugly Creatures, Esme Songbird, and Harmonic Grooves. Larandja said pairing local acts with international icons allowed Namibian artists to gain exposure and experience, while strengthening the city’s creative economy. She said the festival played a broader socio-economic role, boosting tourism, supporting small and medium enterprises, and creating business opportunities for creative entrepreneurs. “Events like the jazz festival play a vital role in positioning our capital as a vibrant cultural destination,” Larandja said. The mayor also thanked sponsors and partners, acknowledging that strong public-private collaboration had been central to the festival’s growth and its continued impact on community development.