Namibia and Botswana have strengthened their sporting relations following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Namibia National Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Association (NNOC-CGA) and the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC).

The agreement was signed on Monday in Dakar, Senegal, by NNOC-CGA President Dr Ndeulipula Hamutumwa and BNOC President Tshepo Sitale during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. Senior officials from both countries attended the ceremony.

The partnership creates a framework for cooperation in athlete development, coaching education, technical training, knowledge sharing and institutional capacity building. Particular focus will be placed on athletics, especially sprinting and relay events, as well as lawn bowls.

Botswana’s success in international sprinting is expected to provide valuable opportunities for Namibian athletes and coaches to access high-performance training environments and technical expertise. Namibia, meanwhile, will share its experience and achievements in lawn bowls through joint training initiatives and technical exchanges.

Dr Hamutumwa said the partnership would strengthen sporting systems and help develop future athletes and coaches. NNOC-CGA Chief Executive Officer Anri Parker described the agreement as a strategic step towards Namibia’s preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

The MoU also provides for joint training camps, exchange programmes and coaching workshops, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to sporting excellence and regional cooperation. Photo Credit: @namibianoc

By Rudi Bowe