Capricorn Foundation supports rural artisans

The Capricorn Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting self-sufficient communities
and economic advancement through its renewed partnership with the Omba Arts Trust, supporting
600 rural artisans across the Omaheke, Zambezi, and Ohangwena regions.
The Capricorn Foundation recently committed an additional N$183,000 to Omba Arts Trust, a
long‑standing Namibian non-profit organisation established more than 30 years ago that has
supported artisans in rural and marginalised communities, particularly San communities. Omba Arts
Trust focuses on cultural preservation, fair‑trade craft development, and sustainable livelihoods.
“Since 2023, the Capricorn Foundation has been a key partner of the Omba Arts Trust. Before that,
Bank Windhoek had supported the Trust through its CSR programme since 2007. Our support is
earmarked for the supply of raw materials, skills development and training, and market access,” said
Veripura Muukua, Head of the Capricorn Foundation.
“We are inspired by Omba and the positive impact they have on our communities. Omba Arts Trust
is a Namibian success story that demonstrates that communities can create sustainable livelihoods
through the arts. We are proud to support their efforts toward sustainable livelihoods and cultural
preservation,” Muukua added.
Benson Kuzai, Director of Omba Arts Trust, stated, “Omba Arts Trust expresses its sincere
appreciation to the Capricorn Foundation for its continued support and for believing in Omba’s

mission. The Capricorn Foundation’s commitment has made a meaningful contribution to
empowering artisans, strengthening livelihoods, and ensuring the sustainability of our work. We are
deeply grateful for this valued partnership”.
“The work of the Omba Arts Trust extends far beyond income generation for the communities we
have served over many years. Our impact is evident in strengthened livelihoods, restored
connections, and lasting relationships built on trust and collaboration. Communities that were
previously separated have been reconciled through craft projects in their respective areas, fostering
unity and social connection. Through these initiatives, artisans actively practice and preserve
cultural heritage passed down through generations while also training and inspiring younger
community members”, Kuzai added.
“Several artisans have had the opportunity to travel and exhibit their work on both local and
international platforms through Omba, including participation in major markets in the United
States. These opportunities instil pride, purpose, and motivation. Artisans wake each day with
meaningful work to complete, which contributes to their well-being and helps reduce vulnerability to
alcohol abuse and illegal activities. Over the past two Omba financial years, 2024 and 2025, more
than N$4 million has been reinvested directly into communities through craft purchases, workshops,
and training initiatives. Omba Arts Trust has played a key role in the growth of Namibia’s craft
sector, and its fair-trade practices and long-term commitment have fostered strong, respectful, and
sustainable relationships with the artisans it supports”, Kuzai said.