Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC) has extended its congratulations to Netball Namibia on securing a historic qualification for the upcoming Netball World Cup. The company described the achievement as a reflection of the growth, resilience, and excellence of Namibian sport. This milestone is seen as a significant accomplishment for the country's sporting community.
According to MTC chief brand, marketing, communications, and sustainability officer Tim Ekandjo, the qualification was the result of years of dedication by players, coaches, administrators, and other stakeholders. He expressed immense pride in Netball Namibia's outstanding achievement, highlighting the years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to excellence that led to this moment.
Ekandjo believes that the World Cup qualification will inspire young athletes and demonstrate what can be achieved through hard work, vision, and strong leadership. He also noted that the achievement highlights the growing strength of women's sport and the role of sport in promoting national pride, social cohesion, and youth empowerment.
The MTC Namibia Netball Premiership, launched in 2017, played a crucial role in this achievement. Ekandjo mentioned that the qualification came only six years after the establishment of the premiership, which aimed to professionalize netball and establish a national elite league. MTC's structured sponsorship of Netball Namibia began in 2018 with an initial three-year commitment of N$4.8 million.
MTC's annual sponsorship of Netball Namibia has increased over the years, from N$1.6 million to N$1.9 million, and further to N$2.5 million in 2024 under a renewed multi-year commitment. In 2026, MTC renewed its sponsorship at N$3.4 million annually to further professionalize the league, improve player welfare, and support outreach programmes.
As part of its player welfare drive, every player competing in the MTC Namibia Netball Premier League now receives a minimum allowance of N$1,200. Ekandjo stated that since 2018, MTC has invested more than N$12 million in developing and professionalizing Namibian netball, supporting the growth of the MTC Namibia Netball Premier League and creating opportunities for hundreds of athletes nationwide.
MTC has called on Namibians to support the national team as it prepares for the World Cup. The company believes that the national team's qualification has raised Namibia's profile on the global sporting stage. Ekandjo expressed his hope that the nation will stand behind the team, allowing them to represent Namibia with pride and display the talent, passion, and fighting spirit that define the country's people.
Key points
- MTC invested over N$12 million in Namibian netball since 2021.
