Casey wins Miss KAITE crown

Casey Jacobs (19) was crowned Miss Keetmanshoop Agricultural, Industrial and Tourism Expo (KAITE) 2026 at the Moth Hall on Friday.

Jacobs received her crown from Zandrė Josephs, Miss KAITE 2025. “I was shocked when my name was called and expected Caylynn to win. I draw my inspiration from my mother, Zenny, who instilled in me the values of hard work and discipline,” she said. Jacobs, whose motto is “Chase your dreams because your dreams won't chase you”, is studying veterinary medicine at the University of Namibia (Unam). She intends to raise funds for Have a Heart's animal sterilisation campaign.

Caylynn Mungunda (18) was named first princess, while Monique Tait (23) was named second princess. Tait also won the Miss Public Choice and Miss Photogenic titles, while Victoria Uulamba was named Miss Personality. Eight contestants competed for the crown, appearing before the judges and audience in casual, creative and evening wear. The judging panel comprised head judge Elzabe Heyns, Franklyn Fleermuys, Jason-Lee Jihad McKay, Kenneth T. Machava and Mia Jacobs. Singer-songwriter Jezelle provided live entertainment, while Johan Yssel served as master of ceremonies.

The pageant was the first of several activities planned to mark KAITE's 70th anniversary. “We also arranged a gospel concert and youth matinee, with South African singer Newie, known for the hit song ‘Song of Hope’, as the main act,” said KAITE president, Charles Jossop. Preparations at the showgrounds will begin on Monday, ahead of the official opening of this year's expo on Tuesday, 27 October, at the Moth Hall. “We are privileged to have Namibia's Prime Minister, Elijah Ngurare, as the main speaker,” Jossop said.

Other activities include a community evening on Tuesday and a tourism information session on Wednesday, presented by officials from the Namibia Tourism Board and the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. Thursday's programme features an agricultural information session, the Miss Tiny Tots pageant and a comedy evening. A business information session on Friday will focus on Keetmanshoop's development. The festivities will conclude with a music bash headlined by South African DJ Milo on Saturday evening.

Jossop also confirmed that all available stall space had been booked. “There will be a wide variety of exhibitors, a beer tent for adults and the merry-go-round to keep everyone entertained. You are invited. We are going to have a celebration, and there will be meat to eat,” he said.