Gospel musicians in Namibia have voiced significant concerns regarding their perceived exclusion from prominent national events and a lack of adequate recognition in national awards. This long-standing issue, which prominent gospel musician and producer Abner Mumbala has brought to the public's attention, highlights a disparity in how the genre is treated compared to secular music within the country's arts and culture landscape.

Abner Mumbala, a veteran in the gospel music scene since 2009 with over 13 albums, emphasizes that despite gospel artists' substantial contributions to society and the broader music industry, they are consistently overlooked. He specifically cited last month's Independence Day celebrations in Windhoek, where merely two gospel musicians were featured in the extensive music line-up. Mumbala articulated his frustration, stating, "One of the biggest challenges I decided to bring to the public is why gospel artists are always neglected, especially at national events." He underscored the feeling that their work is not recognized at the same level as that of secular musicians, advocating for change to elevate their performance standards to international levels.

Mumbala further elaborated on the profound purpose of gospel music, explaining that "Gospel means good news." He highlighted its role in conveying messages of peace and providing comfort to individuals navigating difficult times, asserting that their music carries the message of God. He posed a crucial question regarding the recognition of gospel music in a nation where approximately 95% of the population identifies as Christian, suggesting a disconnect between the country's spiritual demographic and its cultural representation.

Beyond national events, Mumbala also raised critical issues concerning the Namibia Annual Music Awards (NAMAs). He pointed out that for many years, the NAMAs have only featured a single gospel category, which he believes is insufficient. He proposed the introduction of more specific categories such as 'best female gospel artist,' 'best male gospel artist,' 'best praise song,' and 'best worship song.' Alternatively, he suggested the establishment of an entirely separate awards platform dedicated solely to gospel music if mixing genres is deemed unsuitable. He stressed that while local radio stations like Omulunga and Shipi FM have supported gospel artists, securing a national award holds immense significance for an artist's career, as "National awards speak volumes."

Supporting this sentiment, award-winning gospel artist Lady Lundy offered a deeper perspective on the emotional impact of this exclusion. She described a "quiet ache in the hearts of many who serve through gospel music," clarifying that this pain stems from purpose rather than pride. Lundy underscored the historical and cultural significance of gospel music in Namibia, noting its role in carrying "the prayers, hopes, and healing of our people for generations." She highlighted how it has consistently uplifted spirits and united communities, asserting that it is "more than a genre; it is a living testimony of who we are." Lady Lundy views the absence of gospel music, especially during crucial national moments, as disconcerting. Her call is not for recognition for its own sake, but for "inclusion that reflects the full spiritual and cultural heartbeat of our nation."

However, an alternative viewpoint was presented by event organiser Rusten Basson. While not directly involved in artist selection for national events, Basson observed that Namibia operates as a secular state, governed by a Constitution that guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits discrimination based on religious beliefs. His perspective suggests that if gospel artists are included, then artists representing other religions would also need to be considered, ensuring equitable representation across all faiths, not exclusively Christianity.

Efforts to obtain an official response from the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts, and Culture regarding their plans for fair representation of music genres and addressing the gospel artists' concerns proved unsuccessful. The Arts Promotion and Creative Industry Development director, M'kariko Amagulu, was unavailable for comment by the time the information was compiled, leaving the official stance on these significant concerns unaddressed.