Namibia’s football fraternity has received a N$90 million boost from the Namibian Ports Authority (Namport), but President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has warned that the historic sponsorship must deliver tangible benefits to players, clubs and communities across all 14 regions.
Announced at State House on Thursday, 8 October, the three-year commitment will provide N$30 million annually to support the Namibia Football Association (NFA) and leagues under its administration.
The President described it as the largest annual sponsorship in Namibian football history. “Every dollar must be accounted for,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said, calling for transparent financial management, regular reporting and independent scrutiny to ensure the funds are used for their intended purpose.
She warned that misuse of the money must be addressed and those responsible held accountable, stressing that public resources demand responsible management.
The President said the funding must be distributed fairly across all 14 regions, giving young people in smaller communities opportunities to develop their talent alongside those in larger towns. She also urged the NFA to ensure players and officials are paid on time and that clubs understand how they will benefit.
Beyond the pitch, she said, football supports employment and livelihoods for coaches, referees, groundskeepers, administrators and local businesses. Well-organised competitions can stimulate economic activity while bringing communities together.
The investment aligns with the Government’s Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which identifies sports development as a potential driver of talent development, job creation and sustainable livelihoods.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said the partnership must strengthen football administration, improve league organisation and create clearer pathways for young players aspiring to compete at higher levels.
She also highlighted Namport’s previous regional football support, which reportedly reached approximately 720 teams over the past two years, saying the new agreement should build on that foundation.
Minister of Works and Transport Veikko Nekundi said the sponsorship responds to the Government’s commitment to sustainable sports funding under Priority Area 2 of the 2025–2030 implementation plan of the four-party manifesto programme.
He noted that Namport had previously contributed N$10.5 million to support the Namport Regional Football League, adding that investment in sport helps athletes develop their talents and represent Namibia internationally.
Namport Board Chairperson Jerome Mouton said the authority would enter into a three-year agreement with the NFA and apply lessons learned from its regional football support programme.
He described Namport as both a supportive and demanding partner, insisting that the funds must reach the players, clubs, referees and coaches for whom they are intended.
“The board is acutely aware that these are public funds,” Mouton said, pledging prudent management and full accounting for every expenditure.
He also called on the NFA to meet its obligations fully and on time.
By Rudi Bowe
