Hilma Nalupe
At only six years old, Jekura Rashfio Tjiramba is already making a name for himself on the football pitch with his sharp footwork, love for the game and an unforgettable name.
Tjiramba started playing football at the age of four when his parents enrolled him at Dokkies Schmidt Football Academy in 2023. He has loved it ever since.
Tjiramba plays as an attacking midfielder and striker, roles in which he shines – thanks to his agility, confidence and ability to score goals. Just recently, he helped his team win the Under-8 age group at the 2025 Dunes Cup in Swakopmund. This was a major achievement for such a young player competing against older boys. One of his favourite things to do at practice is doing free-kicks and shooting drills, as they help sharpen his skills on the field.
Although born and raised in Windhoek, Tjiramba proudly hails from the Otjombinde constituency in the Omaheke region. He is currently a grade 0 learner at Kleine Professor College in Windhoek. He balances his studies with training, games and family time on the farm during holidays.
His football name, ‘Rashfio,’ is a unique combination of his father’s nickname, Flavio, and the name of his football idol, Marcus Rashford, a name he proudly embraces in all things football-related.
Tjiramba looks up to Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he considers the greatest player in the world, and Jude Bellingham, whose iconic hairstyle he now sports.
“He says he likes Bellingham’s haircut, so now he wants his hair done the same way,” said his father.
Off the pitch, Tjiramba is still very much a child. He enjoys watching cartoons and YouTube videos as well as playing football games with his parents. When visiting the family farm, he spends time riding donkeys and horses, another of his great loves besides football.
He has a growing interest in farming and also dreams of becoming an engineer or farmer one day.
With his talent, family support and a grounded yet ambitious spirit, Tjiramba is a name to watch in the future of Namibian football.
This young star is already showing what dreams and determination can become at just six years old.
– hilmanalupe@gmail.com