Staff Reporter
THE Namibian Navy has officially opened the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Naval Pentathlon Games in Walvis Bay, bringing together sailors from several regional navies to compete in a series of demanding maritime and athletic events.
The competition, which runs from 9 to 13 March 2026 at the Naval Training School, was officially opened by Namibian Navy Commander, Rear Admiral Sacheus Randy !Gonteb.
Participating countries include Namibia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa and Tanzania. The naval competition features five sporting disciplines: seamanship, obstacle crossing, lifesaving swimming, amphibious cross-country racing and utility swimming.
Photos: Namibian Navy Organisation
Speaking at the opening ceremony, !Gonteb said it was an honour for Namibia to host the event for the second time, noting that it reflects the confidence regional partners have in the Namibian Navy.
He said the games provide a platform to strengthen professional ties, foster mutual respect and promote teamwork among sailors from across the region.
“Through these events our athletes demonstrate qualities that define the naval profession — discipline, resilience and unity of purpose,” he said.
The naval pentathlon also includes additional events such as an obstacle race and obstacle relay race, which test participants’ strength, endurance and operational skills.
!Gonteb further highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in maritime security, saying SADC member states share a collective responsibility to safeguard regional waters, protect maritime resources and ensure stability.
He also thanked the organisers, officials and support staff who contributed to making the event possible.
Pentathlon is an athletic competition that combines five different sporting disciplines. The last edition of the SADC Naval Pentathlon Games was also hosted in Namibia in 2023.
