The Debmarine Desert Jewels of Namibia emerged victorious at the inaugural Dubai Holding Community Management United Arab Emirates (UAE) Netball Cup, following a thrilling final held at Al Nasr Sports Hall in Dubai.
Namibia clinched the title with an exciting 62-53 win over Singapore in the final.
Kenya secured third place after defeating Ireland 46-37, while the UAE Falcons impressed home fans with a fluent 65-48 victory over the United States to finish fifth.
The week-long event welcomed six national teams ranked between 18th and 30th in the World Netball standings: Namibia (20), Singapore (19), Kenya (25), Ireland (18), the UAE (23) and the United States (30).
As an officially sanctioned World Netball event, the UAE Netball Cup 2025 highlighted the sport’s increasing global competitiveness and its accelerating growth in the Middle East.
With six international teams competing in Dubai, the tournament added a dynamic new chapter to the city’s sporting calendar and strengthened regional momentum behind women’s sports.
Namibia on a global map
President of Netball Namibia (NN) Juanita Witbeen said winning an international tournament puts Namibia on the global map, demonstrating that the country’s players can compete and succeed against some of the best in the world.
“This win is more than just a trophy – it inspires national pride. It uplifts not only the netball community but Namibian sport as a whole, showing what is possible with hard work, discipline and belief. The win elevates Namibia’s standing within African netball federations and international associations, positioning the country for more invitations to global tournaments and rankings,” remarked Witbeen.
Meyer shares gratitude
Head coach of the Desert Jewels Julene Meyer expressed heartfelt gratitude to the team’s sponsors and supporters.
“Thank you to Debmarine, the ministry, the Namibia Sports Commission and the netball fans for the endless support. Every day, getting your messages and encouragement kept us going. I am happy that we were able to bring this title back home. It was a great tournament. There is more to come. I am especially proud of the young players and the entire team,” she said.
Team captain Anna Kasper, who had confidently promised to bring the trophy back to Namibia, was overjoyed.
“I am extremely happy. To the main people, the fans, without you, we would not have done this. It wasn’t easy, but we stood as a team, on and off the pitch,” she stated.
Unity
Former president of NN and acting president of Africa Netball Rebekka Goagoses shared her pride.
“We are celebrating an important victory, Namibia’s triumph at the Cup. We also celebrate Kenya, who proudly got the bronze medal. Both Namibia and Kenya have shown that Africa has the talent, skills and determination to succeed. As Africans, we deserve our place on the podium – not only in the UAE but at every global tournament, including the World Cup.
“We also recognise the African umpires who continue to raise the standard of officiating on the world stage. We commend Thuto Magome and Victor Boikhutso Tuelo, who upheld excellence and fairness throughout the tournament. Their presence is a proud reflection of Africa’s growing leadership and professionalism in sport,” she remarked.
Goagoses said such achievements are not accidental.
“None of this success happens by chance. It is the result of hard work by players, coaches, administrators and supporters across the continent. We must now build on this momentum. I call on corporations in Namibia and across the continent to support netball – invest in infrastructure, equipment, training and competitions. Open your doors and help us grow this game,” she stated.
She applauded Namibia’s hosting abilities.
“To the government of Namibia, Africa Netball is proud of and supports your vision of developing more sports facilities and your willingness to support sport in general. Many say Namibia is a small country, but dynamites come in small packages. That is why Namibia never shies away from hosting major sporting events. “We are looking forward to the Region 5 Games, which come less than a year after you hosted the Netball Africa Cup and Cosana Games. At the current pace, you are not far from hosting the Commonwealth Games and the Netball World Cup,” Goagoses remarked.
She concluded with a strong call to unity across the continent.
“Let us bring this sport to every community. Together, we are stronger,” she stated.
Secretary general of NN Sofia Simon hailed the Desert Jewels’ stellar performance.
“The Desert Jewels delivered a standout performance in the UAE Netball Cup, securing their win against Singapore and showcasing their competitiveness and skill on the international stage. The team’s efforts will lead to an improvement in the World Netball rankings, highlighting their progress and commitment to excellence.
“This strong performance not only elevates the team’s standing but also inspires future players and stakeholders to continue supporting and developing netball in Namibia. As a nation, we are indeed proud of the success of the team,” she said.
Debmarine speaks
Debmarine Namibia’s CEO Willy Martens paid glowing tribute to the players.
“The team didn’t just win a tournament – you captured the hearts of a nation. Defeating the Singapore Vandas by nine goals in the gold-medal match was not only a thrilling display of athletic excellence, but a clear statement to the world: Namibia is a force to be reckoned with in international netball.
“You have shown grit, grace and determination – every pass, every interception and every goal told a story of dedication, discipline and the power of unity. You carried our flag with pride, represented our values with dignity, and showed the world the strength of Namibian women.
“At Debmarine Namibia, we are proud to have walked this journey with you – not only as a sponsor but as firm believers in your potential. Our support is rooted in a deep commitment to empowering women, uplifting sport and building national pride. You have delivered not just a medal, but a moment of triumph for every young girl in this country who dares to dream. You are, without a doubt, worthy champions.
“Today, we honour not just your win, but what it represents: the power of perseverance, teamwork and belief. On behalf of the Debmarine Namibia family, thank you for inspiring us, for raising our flag high, and for reminding us that greatness lives right here at home,” she stated.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na