The SADC Corrections, Prisons and Penitentiary Services Sports and Cultural Games officially kicked off yesterday at Independence Stadium in Windhoek.
The event, which runs until Friday, brings together seven participating countries: host Namibia, Angola, Eswatini, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, with a total of close to 793 athletes participating.
Athletes will compete across a variety of disciplines, including football, netball, volleyball, tug of war, athletics, darts, chess, pool and golf. During the opening ceremony, Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Lucia Iipumbu, delivered the keynote address.
“These games represent more than just a sporting event. They are a vital platform for building mutual understanding, collaboration, and camaraderie among correctional professionals across the SADC region.
“Participation brings multiple benefits: it improves physical health, enhances mental resilience, and facilitates the exchange of best practices. It strengthens teamwork, discipline, and leadership, all essential traits in our line of duty.
“The World Health Organization has highlighted the high-stress nature of work within correctional facilities. The mental and physical toll on officers is considerable. Therefore, initiatives such as these games are not just welcome, but essential. They support the fitness, resilience, and emotional wellbeing of our officers, the backbone of our correctional institutions.
Furthermore, she added that the knowledge and experience gained from the games can be extended to inmate rehabilitation programmes. “Structured sports activities can significantly contribute to behavioural transformation, build self-esteem, and prepare inmates for reintegration into society. This adds tremendous value to our broader mission of reform and rehabilitation.”
She concluded by saying “to all the athletes present: This is your moment. You have trained hard and have earned the honour of representing your nations. Compete with pride, discipline, and integrity. Let your performance be a reflection of your personal commitment and the values of your respective institutions.”
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na