Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Sport, Arts and Culture, Dino Ballotti, has secured sponsorship for all 14 regional teams set to compete in the 2025 Nedbank Newspaper Cup.
Ballotti announced on Thursday that betting company Pstbet will provide N$10 000 to each regional team to cover expenses for the Easter Youth Tournament, which will be hosted in Outjo during the Easter weekend.
The announcement follows reports that the Ohangwena regional team was stranded without funds for accommodation, playing kits, and extra tracksuits.
The team’s old gear was reportedly taken by previous officials who had managed the squad in earlier tournaments.
Ballotti thanked Pstbet for its consistent support toward youth sport development.
“When we talk of corporate citizens who truly prioritise sport, one company comes to mind. When we talk of heeding the call to support young people and being inclusive, again, one company comes to mind. After a few calls last night, one company said they would only support if everyone benefits, and that company, which has committed a grant of N$10,000 to each of our 14 regions, is none other than Pstbet. On behalf of all 14 regions, on behalf of the boy and girl child, we say thank you and thank you again,” he said.
He also announced that teams from the Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana, and Oshikoto regions will receive fuel support from Oshali Fuel Supply to assist with transportation to the tournament.
“Good news should never be delayed. Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana, and the Oshikoto regional teams will receive a full fuel tank (bus tank) as a donation towards their Newspaper Cup journey, with special thanks to Oshali Fuel Supply,” Ballotti said.
