GATO Tournament Secures Place on Kavango East Football Calendar
By TUW
The GATO Tournament has officially been granted a place on the Kavango East football calendar for December, marking a significant step towards the tournament’s planned return and strengthening organised football activities in the region.
The Kavango East Football Association (KEFA) confirmed the approval in a letter dated 23 May 2026, responding to a request from GATO26 to host the tournament in December.
According to KEFA chairperson Patrick Mukoya, the association has accepted the request following consideration of the proposed tournament and will include the event in its official soccer calendar.
However, the approval comes with conditions. KEFA said the tournament must comply with all applicable tournament regulations and organisational requirements, while organisers will also be expected to coordinate with relevant football stakeholders.
The association welcomed the initiative, saying tournaments such as GATO play an important role in promoting football development and sporting activities within the community.
“We appreciate your initiative and commitment to promoting football development and sporting activities within our community,” KEFA stated in its response.
KEFA also informed the organisers that a N$1,500 tournament registration fee is payable to the association as part of the process.
The association said it remains available to assist with planning and scheduling as preparations for the December tournament continue.
The approval provides GATO26 with an official platform to proceed with preparations, while ensuring the tournament operates within the football structures and regulations governing competitions in Kavango East.
