Marketing from the Heart: My Experience at the MTC Branding and Marketing Indaba

Windhoek was alive with energy, creativity and ambition as I had the privilege of attending the second edition of the MTC Branding and Marketing Indaba, a gathering that is rapidly becoming one of Africa’s most important platforms for branding, marketing and communications excellence.

Hosted under the theme “Marketing from the Heart,” the three-day event brought together over 400 delegates from Namibia and across the continent, including South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, Botswana, Malawi and Zimbabwe. From the very first session, it was clear that this was more than a conference, it was a bold statement about Africa’s creative future.

Backed by an investment of N$4.6 million, MTC Namibia demonstrated its serious commitment to growing the industry, empowering professionals and positioning Namibia as a leading voice in Africa’s creative economy.

A Platform with Purpose

One of the most powerful moments for me came when MTC’s Chief Brand, Marketing, Communications and Sustainability Officer, Tim Ekandjo, challenged delegates to rethink how Africa sees itself. 

“If we are to build an admirable African brand, we must start by changing how we see ourselves as Africans.”

That message resonated deeply throughout the event. Across multiple sessions, speakers explored authentic storytelling, brand purpose, digital innovation, data-driven communication and how marketers are becoming custodians of culture and perception.

Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Hon. Emma Theofelus, also praised the initiative and encouraged professionals to continue building and strengthening Brand Namibia.

Celebrating Namibia’s Best

The Indaba concluded with a glamorous Gala Dinner where the inaugural MTC Excellence Awards 2026 honoured the brightest names in branding, communications, advertising and innovation. Each winner received N$20,000, with a total prize pool of N$380,000. 

Full List of Winners – MTC Branding and Marketing Excellence Awards 2026

Social Media Influencer of the Year – Individual: Remona Aoxamus ft. Nola

Advertising Campaign of the Year: Namibia Diaries - MyOshiTime

Advertising Agency of the Year: O&L Brand X

Best Brand Namibia Initiative: NIPDB - National Launch Namibia Convention Bureau

Best Influencer Marketing Collaboration of the Year: Remona Aoxamus ft. Nola

Best PR Corporate of the Year: Old Mutual Namibia

Best Social Impact Campaign: NAMFISA Consumer Education Initiative

Best TV Commercial of the Year: Nored

Event of the Year: Savanna Sound of Summer

Innovative Idea of the Year: NIPDB - Namibia Film & Creative City

Most Innovative Brand Campaign: SanlamAllianz – Something Blue

Most Innovative Marketing Campaign: Share A Coke

NGO of the Year: Hope Village Children's Home

PR Personality of the Year: Junias Erasmus

Proudest Namibian Moment of the Year: Global Namibia 1 iShowSpeed Visit

Social Media Influencer of the Year – Corporate: CRAN

Lifetime Achievement Award: Hilde Basson-Namundjebo

Best Exhibitor Stand: Travel Hub

People’s Brand of the Year: TST Marketing & Agency

As I left the venue, one thing was certain: the MTC Branding and Marketing Indaba is no longer simply an annual event. It is a movement that is shaping a more confident, collaborative and globally competitive creative industry.

Namibia is stepping boldly onto Africa’s main stage, and after witnessing this gathering firsthand, I can confidently say the future of branding and marketing on this continent is bright.