Maria David
PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah announced an ambitious plan to bolster Namibia’s sports infrastructure, revealing that all 14 regions have identified at least one site for the establishment of sport centres of excellence and CAF Category stadiums.
This significant development was unveiled during the launch of the 6th National Development Plan (NDP6) and the report of her first three months in office, held on Monday in Windhoek.
She said a total of 16 sites have been confirmed across the country for these new facilities. The site selection and assessment for CAF Categories 2 and 3 stadiums, with seating capacities of 10,000 and 30,000 respectively, were completed by June 2025.
Nandi-Ndaitwah confirmed that the CAF Category 3 Independence Stadium project is progressing as planned, with a multi-disciplinary team having submitted a feasibility study in February 2025.
“Construction has already commenced on CAF Category 2 stadiums in Eenhana and Nkurenkuru. Mariental has been confirmed as the third site for a new stadium, further expanding the nation’s sporting capabilities,” she said.
In a move to support grassroots development and enhance professional league performance, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the government is finalising a funding formula to guide sports sponsorship allocation.
She stressed that consultations with sports federations were conducted in May 2025, and internal validation of the draft model is currently underway.
The President said that this crucial formula is expected to be finalised by the end of July, with fund disbursements commencing in August 2025.
“A national call for youth development initiatives from leagues was also launched in May 2025, underscoring the commitment to nurturing young talent,” said the President.
Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted Namibia’s commendable effort in successfully hosting the Region 5 Youth Games after Mozambique’s withdrawal due to a devastating cyclone.
In preparation for the games, the government invested a substantial N$127 million to urgently refurbish key sports infrastructure in Windhoek and Swakopmund, including facilities at UNAM and Vineta.
This encompassed improvements to two netball courts, a football stadium, basketball and tennis courts, hostel renovations, and the acquisition of new equipment.
She indicated that this swift national effort not only ensured the nation’s readiness to host the games but also generated significant economic benefits.
“The refurbishment project created 955 direct temporary jobs, ranging from suppliers to volunteers, interns, and drivers, and an additional 699 indirect jobs through service providers and hospitality teams,” she said.
The President lauded the completion of the sports facilities refurbishment within record time, acknowledging the commendable effort by all stakeholders involved.
