Play Protection Dodgeball at your next youth session! One player shields another, echoing Jesus' sacrifice for us. It's a fun way to discuss love and care.

young-catholics.com/10349/protec...

#ServeOthers #ChristianLove #YouthMinistry #YouthGames

Youth Games Volunteers Finally Paid, but Disappointed [Namibian] Volunteers and translators who worked during the Region 5 Youth Games in Windhoek say they are relieved to have finally been paid, but many remain disheartened by how the situation was handled.

#YouthGames #Volunteers #Namibia #SportsVolunteering #Region5Games

Namibian Swimmers Making Waves [Namibian] Namibian swimmers are making waves at international events at home and abroad. At the recent Region 5 Youth Games, swimming was by far Namibia's most successful code, winning a third of their total medals, while Namibia's top long-distance swimmers are now competing against the world's best at the World Aquatic Open Water Championships in Singapore.

#Namibia #Swimming #AquaticSports #YouthGames #OpenWaterSwimming

Namibia’s U‑19 volleyball teams shine at Region 5 Youth Games Namibia’s under-19 boys’ and girls’ volleyball teams delivered standout performances at the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games, which wrapped up in Windhoek from 4 to 14 July. Competing against top youth...

#Namibia #Volleyball #YouthGames #Region5 #U19

NFA commends U20 women’s team for youth games performance – News Stand - Windhoek Observer NFA commends U20 women’s team for youth games performance – News Stand  Windhoek Observer

#U20Women #YouthGames #NFA #WomenInSports #TeamPerformance

NFA commends U20 women’s team for youth games performance  Erasmus Shalihaxwe The Namibia Football Association (NFA) has congratulated the under-20 girls’ national football team for for finishing fourth at the recently concluded USC Region 5 Youth Games. NFA interim secretary general Cassius Moetie said on Tuesday that te teams performance inthe 10-nation tournament is a commendable achievement for the youth team. “The young Brave Gladiators displayed exceptional determination and skill throughout the competition, demonstrating significant progress and potential for Namibian women’s football,” he said. Namibia lost 1-0 to South Africa and again Los 1-0 to Botswana in the third-place playoff. Moetie said the players showed talent, resilience, and fighting spirit, making the NFA leadership proud. “Their performance clearly indicates that we have the talent to achieve even greater things in future competitions. There is genuinely a very bright future for the women’s national team, especially considering that many, if not all, of these girls will undoubtedly compete to wear the senior national women’s team jersey one day,” he said. He added that the NFA executive council remains committed to the development of women’s football and will continue to support  players reach their full potential. “We will provide the necessary support and resources to ensure these young athletes can reach their full potential and bring further glory to Namibian football,” said Moetie. He said the NFA looks forward to seeing the continued growth of the young players as they move through the ranks and contribute to the future of Namibian football. Namibia finished second overall at the youth games, behind South Africa. South Africa won 143 medals, including 65 gold, 44 silver, and 34 bronze. Namibia as the host country won, 90 medals,24 gold, 34 silver, and 32 bronze. Zimbabwe took third place with a total of 89 medals, comprising 22 gold, 34 silver, and 33 bronze.

#Namibia #WomensFootball #YouthGames #SportAchievement #GirlPower

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. 

#SportDevelopment #YouthGames #EconomicGrowth #InvestInSport #PeaceThroughSport

Youth games part of Namibia’s road to LA 2028 Olympics – News Stand - Windhoek Observer Youth games part of Namibia’s road to LA 2028 Olympics – News Stand  Windhoek Observer

#Namibia #Olympics2028 #YouthGames #LA2028 #WindhoekObserver

Youth games part of Namibia’s road to LA 2028 Olympics Erasmus Shalihaxwe Deputy minister of education, innovation, youth, sport, arts and culture, Dino Ballotti, says upcoming African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games will serve as platform to prepare athletes for the 2028 Olympic Games. Ballotti made the announcement in Parliament on Tuesday while providing an update on Namibia’s readiness for the youth games, which start Friday in Windhoek and Swakopmund. He said the games will help identify elite athletes for the government’s long-term talent development programme and prepare them for international events, including the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.  The preparation programme is called “The Road to 2028 Los Angeles & Beyond”. “The 2025 AUSC Region 5 Youth Games will also serve as preparation for team Namibia ahead of the Africa School Sports Games, to be held later in July–August 2025, the African Youth Games and ultimately, the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal. This programme is aimed at ensuring that Namibia secures Olympic podium finishes starting from 2028 and that we build on the historic successes of our Paralympic athletes, particularly those seen at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games,” he said. Ballotti said the games are not only a sporting event but a strategic investment in youth, infrastructure, and national pride.  He said they show Namibia’s commitment to regional unity, talent development, and a plan to compete internationally. He said the games also present a chance to upgrade sports facilities across the country. “The University of Namibia (UNAM) main campus kitchen, which was non-functional due to damaged equipment, is now being restored to full capacity.  Several dilapidated sports facilities at UNAM are also undergoing refurbishment,” he said. He added that the after school centre, which serves as the national hub for boxing and wrestling under the ministry of gender equality and child welfare, is being upgraded.  The Vineta Stadium in Swakopmund is also being improved, with track and facility repairs. “Most notably, the Windhoek municipal swimming pool is being fitted with a heating system and upgraded to World Aquatics (FINA) standards, laying the foundation for Namibia to host international aquatic events in future,” said Ballotti. A total of 2 022 athletes and officials from different SADC countries are expected to arrive in the country for the games.

#YouthGames #Namibia #Olympics2028 #AUSCRegion5 #SportsDevelopment

Region 5 Youth Games launch inclusive sports guide Erasmus Shalihaxwe The organisers of the African Union Sports Council’s (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games have released a guide to help stakeholders use respectful and accurate language when communicating with and about athletes with disabilities. The guide, launched this week, is aimed at supporting dignitaries, broadcasters, newsrooms, and other stakeholders in engaging with disability sport using empowering terms.  It introduces key terminology related to parasport, Special Olympics, and inclusive youth sport. For the first time, the Region 5 Youth Games will include events for athletes with disabilities and special needs.  The 11th edition of the games will take place in Namibia from 4 to 13 July 2025, with Windhoek and Swakopmund hosting. The guide forms part of the Making Noise campaign, which organisers describe as a learning journey.  The campaign focuses on building a culture of belonging, dignity, and equal visibility for all athletes. “The Making Noise campaign is an inclusive and participatory process designed to disrupt the silence and marginalisation surrounding disability sports by elevating the voices, stories, and visibility of athletes with disabilities,” the guide states. Co-created with athletes, media professionals, and community stakeholders, the campaign challenges outdated narratives rooted in pity or charity.  Instead, it promotes strength, talent, innovation, and inclusion in competitive sports. The organisers said the campaign takes a youth-led approach, presenting athletes with disabilities as strong competitors and cultural icons. It also highlights assistive technology as a tool for participation and empowerment in sport. “Through collaborative digital storytelling, influencer-led content, and live on-site activations, the Making Noise campaign doesn’t just raise awareness, it is actively reshaping how disability and sport are understood,” the guide explains. Organisers said the campaign supports a significant development in the Region 5 Youth Games, the inclusion of both parasport and Special Olympics events in the main sporting schedule, rather than as separate programmes. “This moment signifies a major milestone in the evolution of the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games, reflecting a commitment to inclusive youth sport, where every athlete, regardless of ability, competes with equal visibility and value,” the organisers said.

#InclusiveSports #DisabilityAwareness #YouthGames #ParaSports #SpecialOlympics

38 Unam students affected by hostel move for AUSC games Allexer Namundjebo  The University of Namibia (UNAM) says only 38 students will be temporarily relocated from its hostel to make way for the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games. Namibia will be hosting the games, which are scheduled for 4 to 13 July.  On Monday, the university responded to growing concern among students and student leaders about a reported directive requiring some hostel residents to vacate their rooms ahead of the games. Unam spokesperson Simon Namesho said the university is not evicting students but relocating a small number to allow for renovations and to accommodate more than 2,200 athletes and officials.  “This forms part of Namibia’s national commitment as host of this significant continental sporting event,” said Namesho. “No student will be left without accommodation,” he stressed. The university confirmed that this decision affects 38 out of the 1,525 hostel residents.  Namesho clarified that the university made the decision with full awareness of the academic calendar.  Students who are still writing exams will be moved to alternative accommodation.  The university will provide transport, meals, WiFi, and security.  Storage has been arranged for students’ belongings.  UNAM has engaged with student leaders and has started direct talks with affected students at the Main and Khomasdal campuses. “The planned renovations are not just for the games,” said Namesho.  “They are a strategic investment that will significantly improve student accommodation and campus infrastructure in the long term.” On Sunday, the Student Representative Council (SRC) submitted a petition to Ellen Ndeshi Namhila, UNAM’s acting vice chancellor.  The petition rejected the relocation order and called for its reversal.  “The SRC writes to categorically reject the university’s instruction that all hostel residents vacate their rooms by Wednesday, 11 June or Friday, 13 June,” the petition reads.  “This is not a proposal but an imperative, and it runs counter to the contractual understanding under which students paid for accommodation through the examination period.” The SRC acknowledged the importance of the games but criticised their timing.  They said the order comes during a critical exam period and that many students, especially those from remote areas and international students, have no alternatives.  The petition also raised mental health concerns, citing incidents of anxiety, sleeplessness, and panic attacks.  “This assault on their mental health is intolerable, and we therefore demand the immediate rescission of the vacate order.” The Namibia National Student Organisation (Nanso) supported the SRC’s stance.  The National African Students Association (Nasa) also condemned the relocation.

#UNAM #AUSCGames #Namibia #StudentLife #YouthGames

AUSC Region 5 Youth Games’ LOC rallies city support Justicia Shipena The General Manager of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games, Jacqueline Gertze, says the City of Windhoek will play a key role in the success of the event. Gertze said the city’s support with transport, emergency services, safety, waste management, and environmental health is vital to delivering a world-class Games. She made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the Mayor of Windhoek, Ndeshihafela Larandja, on Thursday.  The LOC updated the mayor on preparations for the 11th edition of the Region 5 Youth Games, which will take place from 4 to 13 July 2025 in Windhoek. The Games will host 2,552 athletes and officials from 10 Southern African countries.  Competitions will take place in 12 sports codes, including football, netball, volleyball, swimming, tennis, basketball, and boxing. Mayor Larandja welcomed the LOC and assured them of the city’s full support.  She said Windhoek is ready to help deliver an event that the capital and the region can be proud of. Meanwhile, AUSC Region 5 held a classification workshop for visually impaired athletes this week in Gaborone, Botswana.  The workshop trained optometrists and technical officials as the region steps up preparations for the Games in Namibia. Led by Ugandan classification specialist Joseph Sebwana, the workshop focused on fair and evidence-based classification of visually impaired athletes. “We’ve taken a major step forward in levelling the playing field,” said Sebwana. “This workshop wasn’t just about technical standards; it was about recognising talent, ensuring fair representation, and building systems that respect every athlete’s right to compete.” Participants shared knowledge and aligned on assessment protocols.  They engaged in practical sessions and exchanged best practices. “We covered key areas from athlete identification to assessment protocols,” Sebwana said. “The enthusiasm and professionalism from participants show that this region is ready to lead on inclusion.” The workshop took place ahead of the Final Entry by Name (FEN) deadline on 30 April 2025, marking an important step in technical preparations for the Games. AUSC Region 5 CEO Stanley Mutoya praised the effort. “This is how we ensure no athlete is left behind. We’re proud to build capacity that enables all athletes, regardless of ability, to compete on fair and empowering terms.” The workshop forms part of Region 5’s wider inclusion strategy.  This year’s Games will, for the first time, feature Special Olympics competitions.  An inter-ministerial forum on inclusion will also take place during the games to align government policy on disability and sport across the region.

#AUSCRegion5 #YouthGames #SportForAll #Windhoek2025 #AthleteSupport

Special Athletes Debut at Region 5 Games Erasmus Shalihaxwe The African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games will, for the first time, include Special Olympics athletes.  Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, Ndeulipula Hamutumwa, confirmed the decision this week. He said the event aims to embrace inclusivity and give Special Olympics athletes a chance to showcase their talent. These athletes will compete in their preferred codes and categories.  “Inclusivity is a core value for these Games and Namibia. This marks a significant and positive step forward, and we strongly encourage all participating governments to prioritise and support gender balance and equal opportunities for all our talented young athletes, including those with special needs,” said Hamutumwa.   The 11th edition of the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games will take place in Windhoek and Swakopmund from 4 to 13 July. Events include football, basketball, netball, beach volleyball, and indoor volleyball.   Hamutumwa gave an update on preparations, noting that the Organising Committee held a seven-day meeting in Windhoek.  The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the Regional Organising Committee, General Team Managers, delegates from the Confederation International, and Chefs de Mission from all ten participating nations.   “Discussions over the past week centred on the meticulous planning and organisation required to host the prestigious youth games. Delegates also undertook site visits to the facilities in Swakopmund, which will serve as venues for swimming and athletics,” he said.   Hamutumwa said Namibia is proud to host the largest youth multi-sport games in the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) region.   “We have a strong history of successfully hosting significant events, and we are deeply honoured to welcome the AUSC Region 5 Games,” said Hamutumwa.

#SpecialOlympics #InclusiveSports #YouthGames #Region5Games #AthleteInclusion

Stage set for Disability Awareness ahead of Youth Games Stage set for Disability Awareness ahead of Youth Games Sport Fri, 04/11/2025 - 12:48

#DisabilityAwareness #YouthGames #NamibiaSports #Inclusion #AthleteForChange

NPC to use Region 5 Games to blood juniors Namibia Paralympic Committee (NPC) secretary general Michael Hamukwaya says the Region 5 Youth Games will serve as a springboard for up-and-coming athletes with disabilities. Namibia will host the 11th edition of the African Union Sport Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games from 4 to 13 July, in Windhoek and Swakopmund. The games were initially scheduled to be held in Mozambique but have since been relocated to Namibia. In an interview yesterday, Hamukwaya said 19 athletes were selected to represent Namibia during the National Youth Games held at Oshakati in 2024. “Next week, athletes are expected to come in for one week of training and classification sessions in Windhoek, provided all plans go smoothly. Zambezi has two athletes, Kavango East has six, Oshana has six, Khomas has four and Omaheke has one,” he said. Hamukwaya added that the games have previously been an opportunity to nurture young and upcoming athletes, and he is looking forward to the young athletes learning and acquiring skills at their first international games. “The Region 5 Games is a key platform we use to develop these athletes, as this is the Olympics of our Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, and it provides a springboard for young athletes to compete against the best in SADC,” he said, noting that athletes such as Ananias Shikongo, Johannes Nambala, Lahja Ishitile, Chris Kinda and Alfredo Bernado have all used these Games to launch their international careers. Meanwhile, NPC team manager for the games Theopolina Kondunda said that they had to remove some athletes older than 18 from the team, despite initially selecting a larger group. “We want young athletes who can represent the country at the under-19 African championships, which is why we removed some of the older athletes in favour of younger ones who will qualify for those championships after the Region 5 Games,” Kondunda said. She said the planned classification and training camp is scheduled for 6 to 13 April 2025, subject to the availability of funding. “We have selected athletes who will compete in track and field events in the T11, T12, and T13 categories in the 100 metres, 200 metres, 400 metres, 800 metres and 1 500 metres. If these athletes are not classified, they will not be able to compete at the championships,” she said. The athletes selected for the training camp are Chikumba Kanyanga, Angula Shikwena, Titus Weyulu, Ndadinifa Haindongo, Elango Nadhipite, Lifuno Chika, Lubembo Mushandikwe, Dapewa Iipinge, Maria Nangombe, Hilma Kaa Ndakalako, Veronika Kusolola, Karolina Hausiku, Ester Munango, Hertha Kavera, Justina Hamutenya, Titus Alweendo, Matjayi Timothy, Christopher Shilongo and Monika Michael. The guides are Nguundja Mujoro, Amos Fillemon, Fippus Paulus and Teodor Shiluwa. – Nampa The post NPC to use Region 5 Games to blood juniors appeared first on The Namibian.

#Namibia #Paralympics #YouthGames #AthletesWithDisabilities #Region5Games

NPC to use Region 5 Games to blood juniors Namibia Paralympic Committee (NPC) secretary general Michael Hamukwaya says the Region 5 Youth Games will serve as a springboard for up-and-coming athletes with disabilities. Namibia will host the 11th edition of the African Union Sport Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games from 4 to 13 July, in Windhoek and Swakopmund. The games were initially scheduled to be held in Mozambique but have since been relocated to Namibia. In an interview yesterday, Hamukwaya said 19 athletes were selected to represent Namibia during the National Youth Games held at Oshakati in 2024. “Next week, athletes are expected to come in for one week of training and classification sessions in Windhoek, provided all plans go smoothly. Zambezi has two athletes, Kavango East has six, Oshana has six, Khomas has four and Omaheke has one,” he said. Hamukwaya added that the games have previously been an opportunity to nurture young and upcoming athletes, and he is looking forward to the young athletes learning and acquiring skills at their first international games. “The Region 5 Games is a key platform we use to develop these athletes, as this is the Olympics of our Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, and it provides a springboard for young athletes to compete against the best in SADC,” he said, noting that athletes such as Ananias Shikongo, Johannes Nambala, Lahja Ishitile, Chris Kinda and Alfredo Bernado have all used these Games to launch their international careers. Meanwhile, NPC team manager for the games Theopolina Kondunda said that they had to remove some athletes older than 18 from the team, despite initially selecting a larger group. “We want young athletes who can represent the country at the under-19 African championships, which is why we removed some of the older athletes in favour of younger ones who will qualify for those championships after the Region 5 Games,” Kondunda said. She said the planned classification and training camp is scheduled for 6 to 13 April 2025, subject to the availability of funding. “We have selected athletes who will compete in track and field events in the T11, T12, and T13 categories in the 100 metres, 200 metres, 400 metres, 800 metres and 1 500 metres. If these athletes are not classified, they will not be able to compete at the championships,” she said. The athletes selected for the training camp are Chikumba Kanyanga, Angula Shikwena, Titus Weyulu, Ndadinifa Haindongo, Elango Nadhipite, Lifuno Chika, Lubembo Mushandikwe, Dapewa Iipinge, Maria Nangombe, Hilma Kaa Ndakalako, Veronika Kusolola, Karolina Hausiku, Ester Munango, Hertha Kavera, Justina Hamutenya, Titus Alweendo, Matjayi Timothy, Christopher Shilongo and Monika Michael. The guides are Nguundja Mujoro, Amos Fillemon, Fippus Paulus and Teodor Shiluwa. – Nampa The post NPC to use Region 5 Games to blood juniors appeared first on The Namibian.

#Namibia #Paralympics #YouthGames #AthletesWithDisabilities #Region5Games

Region 5 Youth Games countdown begins  The 100-day countdown for the Region 5 Youth Games was launched in Windhoek on Wednesday with the organisers saying that preparations are well on track for the multi-sport event.  More than 2 500 athletes and officials from 10 southern African countries are expected for the Youth Games which will see 13 sporting codes in action in Windhoek and Swakopmund from 4 to 13 July.  The chairman of the Region 5 local organising committee Ndeulipula Hamutumwa said that significant progress had been made for the event.  “Our facility renovations are well underway, as we are ensuring that each venue meets the highest international standards. From stadiums to training facilities, our teams are working tirelessly to complete the necessary upgrades. I want to assure you that all key venues will be ready to welcome athletes and spectators when the games begin,” he said.  “We have set clear timelines for completion, with final inspections scheduled well in advance of the opening ceremony. This is a commitment we take seriously, and we will continue to push forward to ensure everything is in place on time,” he added.  Hamutumwa said the University of Namibia will serve as the Games Village, adding that it will provide a safe and comfortable environment for all the participating teams.   “Security remains a top priority, and we will be working closely with law enforcement agencies to create a safe and well-coordinated environment for athletes, officials and spectators,” he said.  Hamutumwa called on local businesses and organisations to contribute to the event’s success by offering support, services and promotions, while he called on members of the public to offer their services as volunteers.  “Volunteers play a crucial role, and we are calling on the Namibian public, especially our youth, to step forward and be part of history. Volunteer programs are open, and we encourage students, professionals, and sports enthusiasts to get involved. This is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and gain valuable experience in organizing international sporting events,” he said.  Hamutumwa said the Youth Games will leave a long lasting legacy for Namibian sport which will inspire young athletes to ‘dream bigger, train harder, and believe in their potential.’ “The investments made in upgrading our sports infrastructure will continue to benefit athletes long after the games are over. We are setting the stage for Namibia to host more international sporting events, positioning our nation as a growing hub for sports in Africa,” he said.  “Additionally, the economic benefits cannot be ignored. The influx of teams, officials, and fans will boost local businesses, hotels, and tourism, creating lasting opportunities for growth,” he added. The executive director in the Directorate of Sport, Erastus Haitengela said it was a proud moment for Namibia and that the government was committed to ensuring the success of the games.  “The Region 5 Youth Games are more than just a sporting event – they serve as a crucial platform for youth development, regional unity and the showcasing of the exceptional talents within our communities. Our government recognises the transformative power of sport and the creative industries in empowering our young people. We are dedicated to providing them with opportunities to excel, dream big and achieve their fullest potential,” he said.  “Hosting the games is a testament to our government’s serious commitment to the development of sport. We firmly believe that sport instils discipline, resilience and a spirit of healthy competition. It is our priority to provide our athletes with an international stage to shine, to pursue their passion, and to receive the necessary support for them to thrive,” he added.  The post Region 5 Youth Games countdown begins  appeared first on The Namibian.

#Region5YouthGames #YouthGames #Windhoek #Sports #Athletes

Pig Food Race: Prodigal Son Game This Pig Food Race makes participants look like pigs rooting for food, so it is perfect as a Prodigal Son game for a lesson on the parable.

Experience the Prodigal Son's journey in a fun way with The Pig Food Race! Reflect on choices, humility, and forgiveness as you crawl and push a ball with your nose. A new way to discuss serious lessons and build bonds. #ProdigalSon #YouthGames #YouthMinistry

CoW gears up for AUSC Region 5 Youth Games Erasmus Shalihaxwe The City of Windhoek (CoW) is preparing to host the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games in July 2025, with organisers ensuring that all stadiums and training venues will be ready in time for the event. Ndeulipulua Hamutumwa, Chairperson of the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games Organising Committee, said on Wednesday that Namibia is on track with preparations to welcome more than 2,500 athletes and officials from 10 countries. The games will take place from 4 to 13 July 2025. Participating countries include Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Athletes will compete in 13 sporting disciplines, including athletics, basketball, boxing, e-sports, football, judo, karate, netball, Special Olympics, swimming, table tennis, tennis, and volleyball. Hamutumwa acknowledged the challenges that come with hosting a multi-sport event within a limited preparation period but said significant progress has been made. “Our facility renovations are well underway, as we are ensuring that each venue meets the highest international standards. From stadiums to training facilities, our teams are working tirelessly to complete the necessary upgrades. I want to assure you that all key venues will be ready to welcome athletes and spectators when the Games begin,” he said. He added that clear timelines have been set for the completion of renovations, with inspections scheduled before the opening ceremony. “I am pleased to confirm that the University of Namibia will serve as the Games Village, providing a safe and comfortable environment for all participating teams. Despite the date change, our organising team has efficiently managed the adjustments to ensure that all arrangements remain on track. Security remains a top priority, and we will be working closely with law enforcement agencies to create a safe and well-coordinated environment for athletes, officials, and spectators,” Hamutumwa said.

#YouthGames #AUSCRegion5 #CityOfWindhoek #Namibia2025 #AfricanSports

Namibia Netball Association calls under-21 players to trials Erasmus Shalihahwe  The Namibia Netball Association has invited under-21 netball players to attend trials for a chance to join the national team ahead of the upcoming netball test tournament series in Windhoek. The association’s secretary general, Sofia Simon told the Windhoek Observer that the tournament will take place from 1 to 5 May 2025 at the Windhoek Showgrounds.  The event will also serve as preparation for the Region 5 Youth Games scheduled for July. “This is a fantastic opportunity for our young players to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on the under-21 national team. The test series tournament in May will also host the club championship as well as the under-21 trials,” Simon said. Namibian netball has shown steady improvement.  Earlier this month, Namibia moved up from 19th to 18th in the World Netball rankings out of 49 countries.  The rise followed the successful hosting of the 2024 Africa Netball Cup. Simon said the improved ranking reflects the dedication of players, coaching staff, and the netball community. “This advancement in the world netball rankings not only highlights our growing presence in international netball but also serves as a motivation for our players to continue striving for excellence on the global stage,” she said. Despite progress, the sport continues to face infrastructure challenges, especially the lack of proper netball courts across the country. Former netball association president, Rebekka Goagoseb previously called on the government and the private sector to support the construction of netball courts in all communities.

#NamibiaNetball #NetballTrials #Under21Netball #YouthGames #NamibiaSports

MazePlex

For @sableraph.bsky.social #wccchallenge #YouthGames

Blogpost + More Images : blog.illestpreacha.com/wcccyouthgames

Coded #Python

Edited with Filters/Effects

#poetry #creativecoding #wccc #design #mazes #dataart

Not So Happy Meal Game: Hilarious Must Try for 2025 This Not So Happy Meal Game is a gross game. Youth will be asked to volunteer to eat a Happy Meal. But they don't realize it will be blended up! Be prepared for some gagging and extreme reactions.

Step out of your comfort zone with the Not So Happy Meal game! Blending surprise and humor, it teaches youth to adapt and build camaraderie. Laugh, support, and create lasting memories with friends. Embrace the unexpected and enjoy the fun! #YouthGames #YouthMinistry

Balloon Simon Says Game: Unforgettable Fun for 2025 The Simon Says Balloon Game is an exciting activity for youth groups that builds listening skills and obedience in a fun way. In this game, pairs of players work together to hold a balloon between…

Simon Says with Balloons is a fun, engaging game for youth groups to learn about listening, focus, and cooperation. Keep the balloon between your backs and follow “Simon Says” commands! Perfect for teaching obedience and faith while having a blast. #YouthGames #FunLearning ✨