Namibia’s Debmarine Desert Jewels have been officially sent off for a crucial Netball World Cup Sydney 2027 qualifying campaign in Nairobi, Kenya, with the national team determined to turn years of hard work into a place on the world stage.
The Desert Jewels will compete in the Africa Netball Cup and Netball World Cup qualifiers from 19 to 26 September, with the tournament offering Namibia a major opportunity to secure one of the two remaining African places at the 2027 World Cup.
Namibia will open its campaign against Botswana on Sunday, but before the tournament begins, the team will sharpen its combinations through three warm-up matches against Malawi, Kenya and Uganda from 16 to 18 September.
The squad was initially reduced from 18 players to 15 following the conclusion of the MTC Namibia Netball Premier League in Walvis Bay. A final cut will see Namibia travel to Kenya with 12 players, although all 15 will complete the pre-departure camp to ensure suitable injury cover is available.
The team’s preparation has included intensive court sessions, functional training, recovery and work on mental resilience, team culture, safeguarding, anti-doping and game strategies.
At the official send-off, Namibia Sport Commission CEO Dr Freddy Simataa Mwiya urged the players to carry the pride and hopes of the nation with them. With Namibia ranked 14th in the world, the message was clear: the Desert Jewels are not travelling merely to participate.
Netball Namibia President Juanitha Witbeen said the mission extends beyond simply reaching Sydney, calling on the team to continue building on the progress made over recent years.
Debmarine Namibia reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the Desert Jewels and women’s sport, saying the partnership is about investing in athletes, opportunities and the future of Namibian sport.The squad is:
Imbileni Omwa Shuweninawa Frans, Monica Shahin Gomases, Rosa Shirenga Gowases, Elisia Ndahafa Hambongo, Loide Tangeni Hanyanya, Elmarien Jessica Ta-Damigus Haoses, Melitha Makena Hunga, Tilie Nelao Kamati, Rejoice Nashira Kambonge, Loide Kanyolo, Louise Uakataviza Kausehue, Grace Matyayi, Mwale Kathy Mulenamaswe, Cornelia Tjatitua Mupenda and Desdamona Tjirera.
By Rudi Bowe
