Patience Makwele
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on Wednesday pledged to accelerate government investment in sports infrastructure across all 14 regions as she officially handed the national flag to Team Namibia ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, describing sport as a key pillar of national development rather than simply competition.
During her keynote address at State House, Nandi-Ndaitwah said the Eighth Administration has elevated sport to one of government’s top development priorities, with 28 sites already identified for the construction and upgrading of sports facilities countrywide.
“We continue to invest in the improvement of sports infrastructure across all sports codes in the 14 regions of the country. With 28 sites already identified, the government is facilitating the construction and upgrading of basic sport facilities in all 14 regions,” she said.
She said sport has become a strategic tool for youth empowerment, job creation, healthier communities and national unity.
“Sports does not only keep people fit but it also creates opportunities for young people, promotes healthy lifestyles, strengthens social cohesion, instils discipline, promotes harmony amongst people from different cultures and showcases our national identity on the international stage,” the President said.
Namibia will compete at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August with a team of 24 athletes and 18 officials representing athletics, para-athletics, boxing, bowls, swimming and gymnastics.
The Head of State urged the athletes to see themselves as ambassadors carrying the country’s image beyond the sporting arena.
“The Commonwealth Games represent more than a sporting event,” she said.
“As representatives of the land of the brave, your participation serves not only as athletes but also as ambassadors, upholding our values and showcasing our unity in diversity.”
She challenged the team to compete with integrity, humility and discipline while inspiring the next generation of Namibian athletes.
“As your number one cheerleader, I will be supporting and following your journey throughout the competition,” she said.
Namibia National Olympic Committee president Ndeulipula Hamutumwa welcomed the government’s increased commitment to sport, saying the decision to prioritise the sector sends an important message to athletes.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Namibia for having prioritised sport. Your support enables our athletes to pursue excellence and proudly represent our country on the international stage,” he said.
He reminded athletes that success should not be measured by medals alone.
“Success is measured not only by medals but by the character you display, the respect you show your fellow competitors and the pride with which you wear our national colours.”
Chief de Mission Joseph Amakali said Team Namibia had undergone months of preparation and would travel determined to compete with honour while upholding the country’s reputation.
“Our focus extends beyond athletic performance. We have emphasised discipline, professionalism, unity and respect for the rules and values of the Games. We expect every member of Team Namibia to conduct themselves with integrity and serve as exemplary ambassadors of the Republic of Namibia,” he said.
Deputy executive director of the Ministry of International Relations and Trade Charles Mubita described the games as an important platform for sports diplomacy saying athletes would also strengthen Namibia’s international relationships.
“You are not going to Scotland simply to compete. You are going there to showcase your talent and your determination as people from the land of the brave,” he said.
“This is sports diplomacy. You are representing the country at a sporting level. Therefore, you do not only have to bring back medals but also strengthen the bonds of friendship with those you compete against.”
Namibia National Olympic Committee chief executive officer Anri Parker said athletes would leave for Glasgow carrying more than the national flag.
“Today marks more than the receipt of a flag. It marks the trust that the nation has placed in you,” Parker said.
She urged Team Namibia to “wear our colours with pride, compete with courage and remember that every performance is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of Namibians.”
The President officially handed over the Namibian flag to Team Namibia before the delegation departs for Glasgow, where the country will make its ninth appearance at the Commonwealth Games.
