On July 30th, Namur’s bid to become the European Capital of Culture in 2030 reached a critical milestone with the official launch of its non-profit organization (asbl). This event marks a significant step in the project’s development, establishing a solid organizational structure to carry this cultural ambition to the European level.
The constitutive general assembly was chaired by Ms. Annick Castiaux, Rector of the University of Namur, who also serves as the president of the non-profit organization. Her appointment underscores the academic institution’s commitment and the importance of youth in this ambitious project, reinforcing the territorial roots of the bid. Ms. Castiaux expressed her enthusiasm for the central role Namur could play on the European cultural stage, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between local institutions and citizens to realize the project’s full potential.
All the founding members of the non-profit were present at this event: Mr. Maxime Prévot, Mayor of Namur, accompanied by Ms. Laurence Leprince, Director General of the city. The Province of Namur was represented by Mr. Valéry Zuinen, Director General. The University of Namur, at the heart of this initiative, was represented by Ms. Castiaux, while the Intermunicipal Association Economic Bureau of the Province of Namur (BEP) was represented by Mr. Renaud Degueldre, Director General. Mr. Denis Mathen, Governor of the Province of Namur, and Mr. Frédéric Laloux, Executive Director of the Namur Europe Wallonia non-profit organization, were also present to show their support.
The launch of the non-profit organization is a decisive step, as it formalizes the commitment of the various local and regional institutions to Namur’s bid. This structure allows for the coordination of efforts and the mobilization of the necessary resources to support the city’s candidacy, as well as the integration of municipalities, non-profits, and other organizations under an official structure. With the project’s administration now firmly established, Namur is on track to develop an ambitious cultural program that can not only transform the city but also highlight its rich heritage and cultural dynamism.
This project is seen as a unique opportunity to strengthen Namur’s cultural identity and position it as a key cultural hub in Europe. The participation of all local stakeholders is a major asset for the city in this competition. The road to the final designation is still long, but Namur seems ready to take on this challenge with determination and creativity.
