Namibian boxers collected a total of eight medals at the Region 5 Games, held from 4–13 July in Windhoek and Swakopmund. 

The medal haul included six silver and two bronze medals. While the results fell short of the team’s pre-tournament expectations, Namibia’s boxing coach, Israel Hamutumbangela, was proud of his team’s performance. 

He said although they had hoped for better outcomes, the team showed great determination, especially considering that most of the boxers were making their international debuts. 

“Our boxers did well, the results show we’ve done our country proud. It’s fair to celebrate them, even though we couldn’t secure a gold medal. All the boys were competing at this level for the first time, and claiming silver is more than good. We’ll build from here,” he said. 

Hamutumbangela, however, expressed concern over judging decisions, which he believed cost Namibia potential gold medals. “I think we should have collected at least four gold medals, but the judges weren’t fair on certain decisions. Despite that, I’m happy with how our boxers performed and carried themselves,” he added. 

On lessons learnt, he said: “We picked up so much from these games. The competition was top-class, and our boxers were exposed to valuable experiences that will help them in future international events. I’m pleased we could build a strong team foundation here,” he said. 

In the women’s lightweight (60kg) division, Balakazi Julaykah of Zimbabwe took home the gold medal, with Namibia’s Erica Nawases settling for silver, while Chilambwe Dinah of Zambia claimed bronze. 

In the women’s flyweight (48– 50kg) category, Mwape Martha of Zambia won gold, while Mischa Araes of Namibia earned silver, and De Fonseea Tifany of Mozambique walked away with bronze. 

–mkambukwe@nepc.com.na