Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off celebrates 10 years

What began as a modest local gathering to celebrate the opening of the new Nedbank Ongwediva branch in 2014 has evolved into a showcase of a proudly Namibian delicacy – the beloved kapana street snack – and a thriving commercial venture. The Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off now stands as a cornerstone of Nedbank Namibia’s commitment to supporting the informal market and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with the bank having invested an impressive N$8 million since its inception.

This year, the competition will continue its tradition of spotlighting the finest kapana-grilling talents from across the country. The northern round will sear and sizzle in Oshakati, the coastal round will bring the heat to Walvis Bay, and the central round will spice things up in Windhoek. Additionally, the competition will expand its reach to include the vibrant diamond town of Oranjemund, which will join the line-up as a new contender.

A total of three contestants will be selected from each round to compete in the finals at the prestigious 2024 Ongwediva Annual Trade Fair. Prizes await those who dare to grill with greatness. The winner will receive a kapana kitchen trailer worth N$100 000, N$10 000 that will be deposited into a Nedbank account, and a N$5 000 Bakpro Vetkoek voucher.

The runners-up will also be handsomely rewarded with Nedbank accounts and Bakpro Vetkoek vouchers.

Thriving enterprises

Previous winners of the competition have transformed their triumphs into thriving enterprises, exemplifying the mission of this competition to empower self-starters. Ester Silas from Windhoek has become an inspiration to aspiring business owners nationwide, having launched her own business just a month after she had won the competition in 2023.

She has stationed her kapana kitchen trailer in Greenwell Matongo, a suburb in Windhoek, where she caters to her community and plans to grow her operation.

This year, the competition’s proud co-sponsors and partners include Bakpro, Oranjemund Diamond Festival, Omulunga Radio, Namibian Chefs Association, Agra and Agra ProVision. As the Nedbank Kapana Cook-off Competition celebrates its 10th anniversary, Namibians countrywide are invited to join the festivities of culinary excellence, business enterprise and the irresistible flavours of kapana.

Kapana masters 18 years and older are invited to bring their flair for flavour and taste for entrepreneurship to the competition. To enter, visit your nearest Nedbank branch or apply online at nedbanknamibia.com.na.