The Namibia Craft Centre is located in the heart of the city and has become known as the leading retail space for handmade crafts, gifts, and curios in Namibia. It provides a platform for Namibian handicrafts ranging from jewelry to carved tree roots.
The Namibia Craft Centre opened its doors in 1990, under Newveld Ventures Investment & Development Company (Pty) Ltd. In 1996 the Rossing Foundation took over the management of the center and expanded and upgraded it with the inclusion of the Omba Gallery. Kerry MacNamara Architects won an award for the design of the center, and the new Namibia Craft Centre opened its doors in 1997. As the demand for more trading space increased, the Namibian Craft Centre expanded further in 1999 to include the Hilde List Loft and the Cold Room.
In 2004, the Omba Arts Trust was established and took over the management of the Namibian Craft Centre from the Rossing Foundation. In 2009, the trust decided to focus on its core business of craft development, which resulted in the registration of the Namibia Craft Centre as a section 21 Company: Namibia Arts, Craft & Design.
The Namibia Craft Centre provides retail space to approximately 40 craft enterprises that hail from distinct communities, ethnic groups, and projects, providing a platform for Namibian handicrafts from jewelry to carved tree roots. Centrally situated in Tal Street in the Old Breweries Complex with enclosed parking, the Centre is easily accessible for drivers or pedestrians.
Expertly woven baskets, carved Makalani kernels, stylish San ostrich-eggshell jewelry, richly-dyed wild silk scarves, Himba bracelets, attractive handmade paper, hand-woven carpets, striking textiles, and colorful embroidered linen; the Namibia Craft Centre is a treasure-trove of color and craft, a collection of Namibian items epitomizing the country – the character and essence of its intriguing cultures, its large blue skies and endless landscapes, it is wildlife and wonder. It’s Namibia (conveniently) under one roof. The Craft Centre supports jobs for more than 4,000 crafters and their families in some of the most rural and marginalized areas.
Something you may soon realize while walking around this intriguing center is that besides the rich stories and the golden opportunity of having access to goods from all corners of Namibia collected under one roof, the word ‘craft’ and ‘art’ are often intertwined. The time spent weaving a basket, threading cotton or beads to create a picture or a bracelet, carving a frame from wood, or making paper, is combined with the skill and talent of craftspeople countrywide to create striking works of art. Whether you walk out the door with a postcard-sized photograph of a Himba woman, a basket, or an embroidered pillow, you will probably have purchased a piece of art rather than just a souvenir – as well as having gained a smidgen of Namibia to be cherished after your return home.
After a good and fulfilling trip, use those few hours left in Windhoek before the flight back home to search for those special bits and pieces for friends and family or for yourself from areas you were unable to visit, or to remind you of your experiences in the country of space and soul.
The Omba Gallery is the most visited gallery in Windhoek and often showcases interesting exhibitions of both local and international artists. With more than twelve exhibitions per year, the art lover will most certainly find an exhibition on show during a visit.
Those into reading or photography will find a wide variety of high-quality books for adults, children, and collectors; some books are only available at the Craft Centre.
For those in the family who don’t like shopping, the Craft Bistro provides a pleasant space to sit down for a meal. Treat yourself to delectable apple crumble, a decadent slice of chocolate or cheese cake, or just enjoy a good coffee while pouring over a Namibian book or to enjoy the last hours of Namibian sunshine on the outside deck.
1. We support Namibian micro and small enterprises. Nearly 40 stallholders sell their craft through the Namibia Craft Centre.
2. We contribute to poverty alleviation through the sale of Namibian crafts. Over 4,000 producers and their families derive an income from sales of their craft.
3. We support Namibian design and product development. Our large ranges of products are uniquely Namibian and of excellent quality.
4. We support sustainable utilization of Namibian natural resources. We encourage use of environmentally friendly products.
5. We have the freshest Namibian food and the best cheesecake and apple crumble in town! Our Craft Bistro is known all over the world for stylish and excellent food. Buy Namibian… THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE NAMIBIA CRAFT CENTRE!
To build on our success as the preferred Namibian craft experience by promoting innovation, excellence, and diversity.
To showcase the best of Namibian handicrafts.
To provide a marketing platform for craft enterprises and communities selling authentic Namibian handicrafts.
To provide a diverse shopping and cultural experience for visitors offering a range of unique products, including a small selection of tourism and value add businesses such as tour operators and info kiosks.
CHAIR
Stallholder and owner of the Anin Linen
VICE-CHAIR
Musician and owner of Time Music
BOARD MEMBER
Arts and Crafts entrepreneur
BOARD MEMBER
Entrepreneur and owner of SDS community and sustainability consultancy
CHAIR
Consultant for Charcoal Association
VICE-CHAIR
Manager Strategic Sourcing at Namibia Breweries Limited
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