By Hilja Shikongo

The Opuwo Youth Choir (OYC) has made history after clinching multiple medals at the prestigious African Asia Pacific Choir Games. 
Under the leadership of founder and senior music director Mbaseua Tjongarero, the choir brought home a gold medal in the Open Competition, a silver in the Grand Prix of Nations, and another silver in the Youth Category becoming the first Namibian choir to achieve such international recognition.

“This victory means more than medals it is a message of hope to every young person from remote areas like Opuwo,” said Tjongarero.  “We have shown that with faith, discipline, and passion, even small-town dreamers can shine on the world stage.”
Founded in 2015, the Opuwo Youth Choir has steadily grown into one of Namibia’s most inspiring youth movements. Under Tjongarero’s mentorship, the choir has represented Namibia internationally  performing in Botswana (2023) and Zambia (2024) as part of cultural exchange programs with local youth.

Their list of achievements includes winning the prestigious Himn Competition in Ongwediva (2019) and several other notable events that solidified their place in Namibia’s music scene. “Our mission is to combat poverty through Arts and Culture while showcasing Namibia’s rich heritage,” explained Tjongarero.

“As a unique choir, we blend traditional culture with artistic expression, captivating audiences with our emotional performances and distinctive tones. People often underestimate us, but once they see us perform, they gain a new level of respect.”
The competition in Mauritius, organized by Interkultur, featured 53 choirs from 14 countries worldwide, including strong teams from Kenya, China, and South Africa. Despite the stiff competition, OYC’s harmonies, infused with Otjihimba tradition and Namibian spirit, earned standing ovations and global recognition.

Tjongarero expressed deep gratitude to their sponsors for making the trip possible. “We owe this success to the Ministry of  Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts, and Culture, Directorate of Arts for sponsoring our flights; the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia for covering accommodation, transport, and meals; and the Opuwo Town Council for registration fees,” he said.

He also acknowledged Friends from Germany, Lindholm of Africa, Members of Parliament, College of the Arts, the National Arts Council of Namibia, and Opuwo Youth Choir Supporters for their unwavering support. He further praised Hizembi Kamatuka for helping them secure affordable accommodation in Mauritius, adding that this kind of support makes dreams possible for young people from rural areas.

“Many of our members come from humble backgrounds. These medals are not just for us they belong to every Namibian child who dares to dream,” said Tjongarero proudly. The choir’s success has not only placed Opuwo on the global music map but has also ignited a renewed sense of pride in Namibia’s youth.

“This is a breakthrough moment for Opuwo and for Namibian arts,” Tjongarero said. “We dedicate these medals to everyone back home and we are not done yet.”

As the Opuwo Youth Choir prepares for their final performance in the Youth Category, competing against choirs from Kenya and China, their spirits remain high and their message remains clear greatness knows no boundaries when talent meets opportunity.