Karlie’s ‘Omake’ chosen as Team Namibia’s Dakar 2026 anthem

Twenty-five-year-old Namibian musician Karlie – Euthermiah Namasiku Kalimbula – has won the Dakar 2026 Compose a Song Competition, earning a prize from the Namibia National Olympic Committee.

Her song 'Omake' will become part of Team Namibia's journey to the Dakar 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games (YOG), scheduled to take place from 31 October to 13 November.

"I felt overwhelmed with gratitude, excitement and relief all at once," Karlie told tjil during an interview.

"I immediately thought about all the hard work, sleepless nights and sacrifices that went into this journey."

She added that she felt proud to represent Namibia and was grateful to everyone who had believed in her and supported her music from the beginning.

Karlie explained that the song was "inspired by Namibia itself, our rich history, the struggles we have overcome as a nation, the strength and resilience of our people, our diverse cultures and the beauty of our natural resources and landscapes”.

She wanted to create something that every Namibian could connect with emotionally and spiritually, she added.

Karlie shared some of the challenges she faced during the making of the song, noting that one of the most difficult moments was dealing with pressure and self-doubt.

“Competitions can be emotionally demanding because you constantly want to give your best," she said.

"Balancing expectations while staying true to myself as an artist was something I had to work through, but it also helped me grow stronger and more confident," she added.

Connecting through song

Sharing what the achievement means to her personally, Karlie said the win "is proof that hard work and perseverance truly pay off".

She sees it as a major stepping stone in her career, one that will open new opportunities for growth, exposure and collaboration.

Karlie said the reaction from family and friends has been overwhelmingly positive.

"My family has been very emotional and proud, and the support from fans has been overwhelming. I have received so many encouraging messages from people across the country, including fellow artists and industry professionals."

Looking forward, she said her fans can definitely expect more music, performances and exciting new projects.

“I am currently working on new material that reflects my growth as an artist, and I am also exploring potential collaborations with other creatives," she said.

"This is only the beginning, and I am excited to continue sharing my journey and connecting with people through music."

OLYMPIC GLORY: Namibian musician Karlie has won the Dakar 2026 Compose a Song Competition. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTED