By Koviao Matuzee
Veteran Namibian musician Lazarus Shiimi (known as Gazza) has turned the launch of his latest album, Nyanga West, into a broader call for Namibians to support local music while creating opportunities for the country’s emerging artists.
Speaking at the album’s media launch in Windhoek on Wednesday, Gazza said the 28-track double album was not only about his own musical journey, but also about contributing to the growth of Namibia’s creative industry.
Gazza said he was concerned that Namibians were once again consuming more foreign music than local productions, reversing some of the progress made by an earlier generation of artists.“When we started thriving in the industry, the industry was dominated by South African music,” Gazza said, recalling how artists including himself, Sunny Boy, PDK and the Matongo Family helped build greater demand for Namibian music.
He said Nyanga West was intended to help create another turnaround in the local industry.
“I hope for this album to achieve some sort of turnaround so that we start listening again to our own music,” he said.
The album features several Namibian artists, including Yeezir and Stakes Boy, with Gazza deliberately keeping international collaborations limited as part of his intention to promote and export local talent.
According to Yeezir, who grew up listening to Gazza, being featured on the album represents a significant personal milestone.
“GMP for life, first of all,” Yeezir said. “For me, it’s an honour, it’s a privilege. It’s amazing. It’s a dream come true for me,” he added.
He further added being part of the project was particularly meaningful for young Namibians who grew up in the same communities and viewed Gazza as an influential figure.
Stakes Boy also described the opportunity as a major achievement in his career.
“I feel like I’ve achieved the biggest. It’s like a dream come true, to be honest,” Stakes Boy said.
According to him, the collaboration is also about building a legacy and ensuring his work is recognised.“I want people to know me for what I do. I don’t want my work to go unnoticed,” he said.
Gazza also revealed that his agreement with Warner Music Group was expanded beyond his own album, allowing him to operate at label level and create opportunities for other Namibian artists.Nyanga West is scheduled for release on November 30 2026.
