President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has issued a stern warning to the Namibia Football Association (NFA) to ensure that every dollar of its N$90 million sponsorship from Namport is properly accounted for. The three-year investment, valued at N$30 million annually, is the largest annual sponsorship in the history of Namibian football. Nandi-Ndaitwah made the remarks at State House when she received Namport's sponsorship towards football.
The President stressed that the funding comes with both an opportunity and a responsibility, particularly for those entrusted with managing the money. She emphasized that the investment must translate into meaningful development across Namibian football. Nandi-Ndaitwah said the central message behind the sponsorship was that financial support must be accompanied by responsible management and accountability.
Nandi-Ndaitwah called for transparent financial management, regular reporting, and independent scrutiny of the sponsorship. She warned that any shortcomings must be addressed promptly and any misuse of funds must have consequences. The President also stressed that every dollar received must be accounted for, and those responsible for administering the funds must be able to explain how the money was used, who benefited, and what was achieved.
The President further emphasized that the benefits of the sponsorship should reach all 14 regions, warning against an uneven distribution of opportunities. She said regional football remains critical to identifying and developing talent, adding that the sponsorship should support national and regional leagues, women's football, and match officials.
Nandi-Ndaitwah said sport is a key development priority under the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), with the government seeking to build a sports industry capable of developing talent, creating employment, and supporting livelihoods. She said football extends beyond players on the pitch, with investment also benefiting coaches, referees, groundskeepers, administrators, local businesses, and communities.
The President placed expectations on the NFA to use the sponsorship to strengthen the administration and professionalism of football in Namibia. The association is expected to run professional leagues and competitions, ensure players and officials are paid on time, invest in coaching and refereeing, strengthen women's and youth football, and create clear pathways for emerging talent.
The true measure of the sponsorship will be what it achieves by the end of the three-year period. Nandi-Ndaitwah said the latest sponsorship should build on Namport's previous efforts, which have supported regional football, reaching about 720 teams across all 14 regions over the past two years. She urged all stakeholders to receive the contribution with gratitude while ensuring that it is managed with integrity.
Key points
- The Namibia Football Association must account for every dollar of the N$90 million sponsorship from Namport.
- The sponsorship is expected to deliver clear and measurable benefits to players, clubs, and communities across Namibia.
- The investment must translate into meaningful development across Namibian football, with a focus on transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.
