Ester Mbathera
The Frank Fredericks Foundation has awarded a N$10 000 scholarship to 16-year-old track and field athlete Kambiri Kazaatjo, a rising star from the Otjinene Athletics Club in the Omaheke region.
The scholarship will support both her educational and athletic endeavours.
Kazaatjo specialises in the 400 metre track event and has already made waves in the national and international athletics scene.
Her journey into track and field began in 2019 as a fun activity, but under the guidance of her coach, Kaupasaneua Mervin Tuaire, in 2022, her true potential became clear.
Since then, she has emerged as a national champion and proud Namibian representative, with future international competitions in sight.
“She’s one of the best, most disciplined athletes I’ve worked with. Her dedication is unmatched, and she’s always ready to deliver when needed. At just 16 years old, she’s already part of the senior national team set to represent Namibia at the African Championships in 2024, and she’s preparing for the NSSU trip to Bahrain in October 2024. She’s a great performer and an example to others at our club,” said Tuarie.
Raised by a single mother, Kazaatjo has faced financial challenges throughout her athletic journey.
Despite these obstacles, her determination and perseverance have driven her to succeed.
“This scholarship will provide the much-needed support to cover her school fees, training gear, and other essentials, allowing her to focus entirely on her education and athletics,” said the foundation.
The foundation hopes to see her achieve her goals and make a lasting impact on the sports scene in Namibia and beyond.
Kazaatjo said dedication is key to any competition that she will participate in.
“I want to be an idol to local younger athletes, become a senior national champ in the 400m, and qualify for international competitions not just as a participant but as a serious competitor,” she said.
