NNN links sport Investment to past achievements Erasmus Shalihaxwe President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says the achievements of athletes like Frank Fredericks and Helalia Johannes continue to motivate government investment in sport. She made the remarks at the official opening of the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games, which began on Friday. Nandi-Ndaitwah said sport is an essential part of the country’s development agenda,the potential to improve lives, drive economic growth, and promote peace and unity. “Just as agriculture nourishes bodies, sport nourishes souls, fosters healthy lifestyles, and generates immense economic opportunities,” she said. She also highlighted sport’s role in promoting regional integration.  “When our youth compete side by side, they build bonds of friendship and understanding that transcend borders. You are forging a future of peace, cooperation, and shared prosperity for our continent,” she added.  She said this  vision aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which promotes a peaceful, integrated, and prosperous Africa.  “Sport is a cornerstone of this vision, empowering youth, promoting cultural exchange, and strengthening the very fabric of our continental unity,” she added. Nandi-Ndaitwah called on SADC member states to continue creating supportive environments for young people to thrive.  She urged governments to provide the necessary resources and policies to support youth, not only  in sport but across all sectors of life. “Their success is the assurance that ensures peaceful existence,” she said. Addressing young athletes, she encouraged them give their best during the games.  “Seize, and own this moment! Compete with integrity, showcase your extraordinary talents, and build lasting friendships. Let your dreams be a testament to your hard work, and a powerful statement of your potential for socio-economic advancement, not just for yourselves, but for your families and your nations.” “Africa with its natural resources is looking at you to play your part and make this continent a heaven of peace and prosperity for all. Have fun, make memories, and inspire us all,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said. 

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Namibian sport takes political centre stage  Sport minister Sanet Steenkamp has reiterated president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s declaration that her administration will significantly invest in enhancing the sport industry. In her recent maiden state of the nation address, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the government will construct seven new internationally-approved stadiums across six regions. This forms part of an ambitious project to professionalise Namibian sport, an avenue for employment and socio-economic emancipation. That ambition was backed up by Steenkamp who says 63% of the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture’s N$1.2-billion budget is dedicated to sport development. She said this when motivating her ministry’s budget in parliament this week. “It is reflecting the ministry’s focus on enhancing sport performance and infrastructure,” Steenkamp said. She said a total of N$802 891 000 is allocated towards the development and promotion of sport across the country. “The ministry’s long-term goal, in line with the draft National Development Plan 6 and the Swapo Party Manifesto Implementation Plan, is to support the growth and professionalisation of sport in the country so as to increase the sport industry’s contribution to employment creation,” said Steenkamp. Nandi-Ndaitwah, Namibia’s first woman president, said for the sport industry to deliver on its potential, it must include research and development, talent management, construction and marketing to create new opportunities and stimulating job creation. “The sport industry is a major part of the global economy. We should move away from looking at sport only as a recreation and entertainment but regard it as an avenue that can be harnessed to create sustainable livelihood and generate wealth, especially for the youth,” she said. The 30 000-seats stadiums will be constructed at Oshakati, Rundu, Windhoek, Outapi, Swakopmund, Eenhana and Keetmanshoop. Additionally, the government plans to construct 10 000 seating-capacity stadiums at Omuthiya, Mariental, Gobabis, Katima Mulilo, Otjiwarongo and Nkurenkuru. “The eighth administration will work towards the professionalisation of sport codes, targeted investment promotion and sport infrastructure development. To give effect to our agenda, the construction of these fields will commence during this financial year,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said. “The government, together with the public sector, will continue to invest in the professionalisation of sport leagues and hosting of international sport events.” The post Namibian sport takes political centre stage  appeared first on The Namibian.

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