Kapana Cook-Off competition held in the north

The first preliminary round of the 2023 Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off competition was held this past weekend in the northern town of Oshakati. A total 61 participants took part in the competition in hopes of qualifying for the finals in August, where they will stand a chance to walk away with the grand prize of a mobile food truck worth N$ 100 000 and a cash prize of N$10 000, courtesy of Nedbank Namibia.

The competition saw some participants blow away the judges with their impeccable meal preparation and presentation.

Since its launch 9 years ago, the Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off Competition continues to attract participants from all walks. This year, visually impaired entrepreneur, Jacobina Samuel inspired onlookers as she entered the competition despite her disability. Samuel prepared a salsa dish and made a huge impression on the spectators when she, together with her helper, completed the round in the allocated time. Asked the reason for her entering the Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off Competition, she narrated that she wanted to use the opportunity to show people to go after their dreams no matter their circumstances, “I had a restaurant in Ondangwa, but after the Covid-19 pandemic, it closed down and since then I’ve been trying to get back on my feet. My main reason of taking part in the competition is to give awareness to the all the people out there and let them know that in as much as you may have an impairment, if you like doing something, do not let your circumstances limit you from pursuing your passion,” she said.

At the event, Nedbank Namibia Head of Marketing and Communications, Gernot de Klerk said that this has been one of the most well-attended Nedbank Kapana events since the event started almost a decade ago.

“After an amazing day of festivities at the first preliminary round of this competition, it is exciting to see new and returning faces taking part. Its moments like these which assert the significance the competition has in the community especially after seeing a turnout of over 60 participants. Nedbank Namibia is proud of being one of the leading institutions aiding in SME development through initiatives like these, and we will continue with our support for years to come. Our next preliminary round will take place in Walvis Bay, and we expect nothing less than what we have witnessed in the Oshakati. Last year we saw the youngest ever participant from Walvis Bay taking part and securing her place in the final at only 17 years of age. We hope others take heed and participate in this competition so they too can stand a chance of winning big,” de Klerk said.

Winners of the northern preliminary round who will go on to take part in the final in August include, Johannes Haulondjamba, Loise Iimvula, and Cleopatra Shipanga.

The next preliminary round will take place in Walvis Bay, on Saturday, 8 July; followed by the central preliminary round in Windhoek on Saturday, 5 August. Entries into the competition are open and entry forms can be downloaded on www.nedbank.com.na or collected from any Nedbank Namibia branch nationwide.

The Nedbank Kapana Cook-Off is co-sponsored by Bakpro, Agra, and Omulunga Radio.