On 30 October 2025, Hon. Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, Minister of International Relations and Trade, officially opened the 2025 Tsumeb Copper Festival in the Oshikoto Region. The event, themed “120 Years of Innovation and Cultural Emancipation Celebrating 20 Years of the Tsumeb Copper Festival (2003–2025),” marks a dual milestone for the town and the festival itself.
In her opening remarks, Hon. Ashipala-Musavyi emphasized the significance of commemorating Tsumeb’s 120th anniversary alongside the 20th edition of the Copper Festival. She highlighted the festival as a key platform for fostering innovation, community empowerment, and celebrating cultural pride. The Minister praised Tsumeb’s growth, noting its evolution from a mining town to a dynamic centre of industry and social development a testament to Namibia’s resilience and vision for progress.
The Minister linked the festival’s theme to national and continental strategies including Vision 2030, the Harambee Prosperity Plan II, NDP6, and Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want. These frameworks promote inclusive economic growth, innovation, and youth empowerment across Namibia and Africa.
Accompanied by the Governors of Oshikoto and Omusati, the Mayor of Tsumeb, and other officials, Hon. Ashipala-Musavyi lit the festival torch to officially commence the celebrations. The opening ceremony featured a symbolic release of 120 balloons and 20 doves by children, representing 120 years of Tsumeb’s history and 20 years of the festival’s success.
The Minister also thanked the Tsumeb Municipal Council, the Organising Committee, and corporate partners for their unwavering support in making the festival a continued success.
