Mathew Haikali
Am just saying that for far too long, training and development in sports have primarily focused on technical skills—like coaching, refereeing, and enhancing athletic performance. While these areas are undoubtedly important, a major blind spot has been in preparing sports managers and administrators with the necessary tools and knowledge to drive the industry forward.
Am saying this lack of attention to sports management training and development has left the sector struggling on its own, undermining a field teeming with potential for job creation, economic growth, and fostering national pride.
Am just saying, where youth unemployment rates have soared to a shocking 50%. The sports sector has the potential to serve as a game-changer. Beyond the athletic field lies an array of opportunities—in sports management, governance, marketing, event planning, and facility maintenance. Yet, insufficient investment in these areas has stifled the sector’s capacity to make meaningful contributions to the economy.
Am just saying that this oversight becomes even more glaring when contrasted with Namibia’s national policy goals. The Fifth National Development Plan (NDP 5) briefly mentioned sports, with an ambitious goal of contributing 2% to the country’s GDP. However, the strategies to achieve this were neither designed nor implemented. Instead, sports budgets have consistently been slashed, leaving federations unable to fund even basic programs. How can a sector thrive under such conditions?
All am saying is that Sports policy, legislation, and management are tightly interconnected. Policies lay the groundwork, legislation ensures enforcement, and management turns these visions into reality. Unfortunately, a lack of understanding about how these elements interrelate has left sports leaders unequipped to push for the professionalization of the sector. This knowledge gap has created an environment where vested interests thrive while meaningful progress stalls.
A telling example lies in the salary inconsistencies across the sports sector:
• CEOs and Secretary Generals earn between N$5,000 and N$100,000.
• Coaches’ earnings range from N$3,000 to N$30,000.
• Contracted players receive salaries anywhere between N$200 and N$20,000.
Am just saying these stark differences highlight the absence of standardized governance and pay structures, leaving the sector vulnerable to inefficiency and inequity. Additionally, the reward system for athletes reflects a troubling undervaluation of their efforts. For instance, a gold medalist who invests millions into their training receives just N$250,000—a small sum compared to the international recognition and pride they bring to their country.
All am saying is that at the heart of these challenges is the neglect of training and development in sports management. Skills such as governance, transparency, accountability, and financial planning are not inherent; they must be cultivated through structured education and training. Yet, few sports organizations in Namibia take advantage of available resources like the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) training levy, which provides financial support for capacity building. If fully utilized, these resources could help develop capable leaders who understand the intricacies of the sector and are committed to its professional growth.
Unlocking the full potential of sports in Namibia requires deliberate action.
Am just saying, Sports management isn’t an optional add-on—it is the backbone of a vibrant sports sector. By investing in training and development, Namibia has the opportunity to transform its sports industry, creating jobs, building national pride, and driving economic growth.
The time to act is now. Leaving the future of sports to chance or fragmented efforts will only perpetuate the challenges that already exist. It is imperative for all stakeholders—government bodies, federations, private entities, and the broader sports community—to collaborate and elevate the sector to its rightful position as a key driver of national progress.
Mathew T Haikali I Managing Member I Just Imagine SPORTS I Box 20739, Windhoek
M: +264 85 522 0647 I E: rootzkrew@gmail.com I E2: matts@iway.na
