Youth Games symbol of unity arrives on the coast. The Region 5 Youth Games Torch has arrived in Swakopmund, bringing a powerful symbol of youth, sport and regional unity to the coast as Namibia joins the countdown to the 2026 African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games.
The torch, brought to Namibia by a delegation from Mozambique, was received during a special ceremony at the MTC Dome, where four Namibian athletes officially took custody of the symbol as it begins its journey across the region.
The torch will travel through participating countries as part of the build-up to the Games, which will take place in Maputo, Mozambique, from 4 to 13 December 2026. Its next stop is Zambia on Sunday.
The biennial Games bring together 10 Southern African nations – Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe – in a celebration of youth sport and regional cooperation.
Namibia is preparing to compete in nine disciplines, namely Athletics, Visually Impaired, Special Olympics, Boxing, Karate, Table Tennis, Swimming, Football and Beach Volleyball.
For Swakopmund, the torch’s arrival carries added significance following the town’s role as one of the host venues during the 2025 Region 5 Youth Games, alongside Windhoek.
The 2025 Games brought thousands of young athletes, officials and supporters to Namibia and placed Swakopmund firmly on the regional sporting map.
Beyond the competition itself, the Region 5 Games are aimed at creating opportunities for young athletes, promoting regional integration and strengthening relationships between participating countries.
The torch symbolises that connection, carrying the message of unity and friendship through sport as it moves from one country to another. Its arrival on the coast also provides a reminder of the lasting impact of hosting major youth sporting events, particularly in creating opportunities for young Namibians to experience international competition.
For Swakopmund, the moment is also a celebration of its growing role in regional sport. The torch has arrived. The countdown to Maputo is on.
By Rudi Bowe
