Maria David
THE Namibian music industry is facing a critical juncture, with artists speaking out against what they describe as widespread mistreatment and exploitation.
Musician Jacobus Haihambo, also known as ‘Proof Nana’, said that artists are “suffering” and it’s time for change.
Haihambo highlighted the disheartening trend of artists being required to pay between N$300 and N$500 to submit application forms, often with no guarantee of a performance slot.
“This is not only unfair; it is robbery in broad daylight,” he said.
Haihambo contrasted this with countries like Nigeria and Ghana, where artists are respected and paid for their work.
He emphasized the hard work artists put into their music and added that passion alone doesn’t cover expenses.
Thus, Haihambo urged the Namibian Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (NASCAM) and the relevant government ministry to protect artists’ rights.
He called for unity among all Namibian artists to demand fair treatment and payment for their work.
“Enough is enough,” he declared, emphasizing that artists deserve to be paid for their contributions.
