STAFF WRITER
Namibia Ports Authority (Namport) have provided a shot in the arm for local football after unveiling a N$90 million sponsorship to Namibia Football Association over three years.
The sponsorship is divided atN$30 million annually, and is the largest annual sponsorship in the history of Namibian football.
This commitment follows Namport’s N$100 million dividend to the State.
Announcing the sponsorship on Thursday President Netumbo Nnadi – Ndaitwah said the contribution reflects sound performance and shows how a well-managed public enterprise can create value for the Namibian people.
“Namport is also building on its existing support for regional football across all fourteen regions. I am informed that, over the past two years, that partnership reached about 720 teams. It demonstrated the depth of talent in our country and the importance of taking opportunities to our communities,” Nandi – Ndaitwah said.
She said the investment must help players progress and give clubs the stability they need to develop the game.
“Sport is one of our Government’s development priorities under the Sixth National Development Plan, NDP6. We want to build a sports industry that develops talent,
creates employment and supports livelihoods.
“For our young people, football offers a pathway to develop their abilities and pursue their ambitions. A football pitch also teaches discipline, teamwork, leadership and resilience. These qualities serve young people throughout their lives, whether they remain in sport or pursue other careers,” she said.
The President said investment in football reaches beyond the players and supports coaches, referees, groundskeepers, administrators and local businesses. “Well-organised competitions can generate activity in our towns and communities while bringing people together across regional, linguistic and social boundaries.
This is why we must approach sports development with purpose. The investment we welcome today should translate into stronger institutions, better opportunities
and a game that contributes to our national development goals,” Nandi – Ndasitwah said.
She said football players must be able to rely on properly organised competitions, and sponsors must be able to trust those who administer the game.
“Every organisation seeking support must therefore recognise that accountability is part of the work of developing sport. The way a contribution is managed
influences whether the next contribution will come. This partnership gives football an opportunity to demonstrate that it can manage substantial support responsibly and build the confidence needed for long- term sustainability,” she said.
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