Erasmus Shalihaxwe
The Namibia Motorsport Federation (NMF) has elected new leadership at its recent annual general meeting in Windhoek.
Daniel Tjongarero Jr is the new president, with Benson Kalla as vice president. Bradley Ferreira will chair the motoring commission, Andreas Brendel will head the motorcycling commission, and Derek Jacobs will serve as secretary general.
The newly elected officials will manage the sport’s administration and regulations for the next two years, focusing on expanding motorsport across Namibia and internationally.
Jacobs said the sport struggles to attract participants because many believe it requires a large financial investment.
‘’Anyone can compete in motorsport and occupy any position; this is a sport for everyone, but we see little interest from the public. Imagine we are even struggling to get administrators. We need officials, especially women. We can train them ourselves and become certified officials. We can even send them for further training at Formula 1, which is the world’s mother body,’’ said Jacobs.
He added that motorsport offers good opportunities for committed individuals.
Jacobs said that competing in South Africa can lead to international events such as the Motor Grand Prix and Formula 1, which offer higher financial rewards.
Despite efforts to secure funding, NMF has not received much financial support and relies on contributions from member clubs.
‘’We are part of the Ministry of Sport and Namibia Sports Commission, but over the years that I have been here, we only got a grant from the Sports Commission last year. We have now written to the world mother body for a developmental grant which is given to all member associations, and we are waiting for feedback; when it comes, we will put it to good use to take motorsport to the next level in this country,’’ said Jacobs.
