The second edition of the MTC Branding and Marketing Indaba has opened in Windhoek, drawing more than 400 delegates from across Namibia and the wider African continent.
The three-day event, held under the theme “Marketing from the Heart”, brings together industry leaders, creatives and communications professionals to discuss branding, storytelling and marketing strategies in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Organisers say the indaba is positioning itself as a growing continental platform for the branding and marketing community, with a focus on strengthening industry standards and promoting authentic African narratives.
MTC Chief Brand, Marketing, Communications and Sustainability Officer Tim Ekandjo said Africa must take ownership of how it is perceived globally.
“If we are to build an admirable African brand, we must start by changing how we see ourselves as Africans before expecting the rest of the world to shift their perceptions,” he said.
Ekandjo added that MTC aims to develop the event into a leading platform for the continent.
“This indaba will become one of Africa’s premier branding and marketing platforms within the next two years, built in Namibia but serving the continent,” he said.
He also called for the establishment of a formal industry body to represent branding, marketing and communications professionals in Namibia, saying MTC is prepared to support such an initiative.
Minister of Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus commended the platform, urging participants to take ownership of their role in shaping Brand Namibia.
The event features 21 speakers from countries including Namibia, Zambia, Kenya, Botswana, South Africa, Malawi and Zimbabwe, with sessions focused on brand building, communication strategy and innovation.
The indaba will conclude on 10 April with a gala dinner and an awards ceremony recognising excellence in branding, marketing, communications and advertising.
