NSC Admits Error After Wrong Athlete Announced as People’s Choice Sport Star of the Year
By TUW
The Namibia Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed that the 2025 People’s Choice Sport Star of the Year Award was unintentionally handed to the wrong athlete, prompting a public apology and an immediate correction to honour the rightful winner, Emilia Ekandjo.
During a press conference held earlier today, the Commission acknowledged that the award was mistakenly presented to Jeromius Rooi at the Namibia Annual Sport Awards. NSC spokesperson Givean Samulandela explained that the mix-up stemmed from similarities in category titles, which resulted in the incorrect envelope being delivered to the announcer.
“The Namibia Sport Commission proudly confirms Ms Emilia Ekandjo as the official People’s Choice Sport Star of the Year 2025. Ms Ekandjo received 3,048 of 13,078 public votes and was formally presented with her trophy and prize money at a public handover at the Commission’s Head Office today, 28 November 2025.”
Samulandela noted that the Commission has already initiated changes to avoid a repeat of the oversight. One of the key adjustments includes renaming the category to People’s Choice Award to ensure clarity during the selection and announcement process.
The NSC extended its apology not only to Ekandjo but also to Rooi, who unknowingly accepted an award that was meant for another athlete on the night.
Ekandjo, now officially recognised as the 2025 People’s Choice Sport Star of the Year, expressed appreciation for the Commission’s swift correction. She also thanked the Namibian public for their overwhelming support and encouraged young aspiring athletes to remain committed to their dreams.
She was formally handed her trophy, certificate, and prize money during the briefing.
