The incoming government has reported to upgrade Namibia’s sports facilities, aiming to change the narrative of Namibian sports on the international stage. The upcoming government, led by Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, has reportedly directed the Ministry of Sport to build at least five CAF-standard stadiums.
The Namibia national football team is currently playing its home matches in neighboring South Africa due to the country’s lack of a CAF-approved stadium. However, upcoming leadership changes could bring significant improvements to sports infrastructure in Namibia.
“The new president has directed us to construct five CAF Category Level 3 stadiums over the next five years in cities including Windhoek, Oshakati, and a coastal town. Additionally, each regional capital will have a state-of-the-art Category Level 2 stadium,” stated the Ministry of Sport’s Executive Director, Mr. Erastus.
To further enhance grassroots sports development, basic sports facilities will also be built in all 21 constituencies across the country.
A major project under this plan is the N$2 billion renovation of the Independence Stadium in Windhoek. Key features of the upgrade include:
- Expanding the stadium’s land to accommodate more spectators and parking spaces.
- Constructing a dedicated training ground adjacent to the main stadium.
- Acquiring additional land to facilitate the expansion.
As the Independence Stadium’s upgrade is expected to take about three years, authorities are planning a quick renovation of Sam Nujoma Stadium to allow the national team to host matches at home in the meantime.
Speaking on Eagle FM, Mr. Erastus assured that the Sam Nujoma Stadium’s required renovations are minimal and will be completed in a short period.
These ambitious projects mark a significant step towards improving Namibia’s sports infrastructure and ensuring that the national team can play home matches within the country in the near future.
