A call for entries for the Next Ma|Gaisa Star Competition was launched in Windhoek, signalling the start of Season 5 of the event.

The competition, driven by SAN-Welwitschia Music Productions and supported by the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (nbc), the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN) and the National Theatre of Namibia (NTN),has become a highlight in the cultural calendar.

The event is sponsored by the Namibia Airports Authority (NAC).

The grand final of the Next Ma|Gaisa Star Season 4 took place at the NTN at the end of October, with 9 finalists from Gobabis, Okahandja, Okombahe, Omaruru, Otjiwarongo, Outjo, Rehoboth, Tsumeb and Walvis Bay.

Next Ma|Gaisa star host, Che Ulenga, who spoke at the call for entries, hailed the support of all institutions in making the competition a success.

"Our mission is to foster the growth of Namibian genres and culture while nurturing talented Namibian artists, enabling them to gain exposure in the music industry."  

Veteran Next Ma|Gaisa Star judge Backos traced the genre to |Geis, a traditional communal form where mothers led vocals and fathers accompanied with instruments. 

He, however, made it clear that there is nothing tribal about the competition.

"Whether the person sings in Otjiherero or in Khoekhoegowab, or in Afrikaans or in Oshiwambo, it should just be music at the end of the day because there is a saying that says music is a universal language."

Radio personality Clarence Eiseb, better known as CJay, is another judge, and he spoke about his expectations for season 5.

"Look, sometimes we only see certain qualities towards the end, but you know, try to give us something from the beginning that will blow us away from the beginning," stressed Eiseb.

The Namibia Airports Company (NAC) has invested about N$1.5 million in the competition so far. 

The Head of Marketing and Stakeholder Engagement, Cliff Shikwambi, pointed out that the NAC's investment reflects the company's belief in the power of the arts to create opportunities, strengthen communities and promote Namibian identity.

"This platform has become an important driver of cultural expression, youth empowerment and economic activities across all sectors of our creative industry."

Entries for the Next Ma|Gaisa Star close on 1st March 2026.