Blue Waters Sport Club chairperson Mathias Haufiku has called on the Namibia Football Association (NFA) to honour late football stalwart Charles Kauraisa by renaming the NFA Football House in his name.

He made the call while delivering his club’s tribute at Kauraisa’s memorial service on Friday in Windhoek.

Haufiku’s plea was acknowledged by mourners, who came out in droves to pay tribute to the man who spearheaded Namibia’s affiliation fees to the international football governing body, FIFA.

“He became the NFA president at a time when the country was still finding its feet. While others were fixated on political stability, he saw the importance of sport and its potential to contribute to nation-building.

“These are the kinds of legacies we ought to jealously safeguard while at the same time building onto the foundation laid by people like Uncle Charles. It is, therefore, my view that renaming the football house after him will be a fitting tribute for what he has done for our football,” he said.

While delivering the heartfelt tribute, he was flanked by legends such as Ranga Lucas, Bonnety Niilenge and Dumpie Mupupa.

They dusted off their blue blazers to take on the 400-kilometre journey from the coast to bid farewell to a man who once led the club as a coach and chairman.

Haufiku described Kauraisa as a towering figure in Namibian football, whose legacy continues to inspire players, administrators and supporters across the country.

He said Kauraisa’s impact on Blue Waters and Namibian football at large would be remembered for generations.

“Kauraisa was more than just a club chairman. He was a father figure, mentor, strategist and a visionary. His leadership was built on strict discipline, unwavering commitment to player welfare and a professional operational model, which helped elevate Blue Waters into one of Namibia’s most respected football clubs,” Haufiku remarked.

Kauraisa’s contribution to the Namibian football landscape was immense, stretching from the grassroots level to the very top.

Haufiku noted that anyone familiar with the history of the game in Namibia would recognise the pivotal role Kauraisa played in shaping not only the success of Blue Waters but also the broader football fraternity.

“He walked every road in Namibian football from its humble beginnings to its defining moments, with conviction, honesty and deep passion,” he said.

Kauraisa made history as the first democratically elected chairman of the NFA.

His departure from Blue Waters at the time was bittersweet, as the club lost not only a capable leader but also a guiding force who helped navigate difficult times with wisdom and clarity.

“He was the kind of leader who shared his victories with humility and took responsibility for his shortcomings. He was approachable, modest and principled. That is the Kauraisa we knew and admired,” Haufiku added.

Reflecting the club’s deep-rooted community spirit, he said he consulted Blue Waters’ elders in preparing the tribute.

Ambassador Wilfred Emvula, a veteran of the club, remembered Kauraisa as a transformational figure.

“Kauraisa was an outstanding administrator who brought new management styles and effective fundraising strategies. Despite his demanding role at Rössing Uranium, he committed himself fully to Blue Waters. Under his leadership, the club won several prestigious tournaments and secured major sponsorships,” said Emvula.

Former chairman King Mandume echoed those sentiments, recalling Kauraisa’s instrumental role in leading the team to the JPS Final in 1988 and securing the Rossing NFA Cup in 1990.

“He supported the team financially, materially and even opened his home to house players,” Mandume noted.

Kauraisa’s influence was felt long after his active leadership ended.

Haufiku recounted a chance encounter with him in 2022 during a visit by CAF president Patrice Motsepe. Just before a crucial meeting on the future of Namibian football, Kauraisa shared some timeless advice.

“He told me, ‘This team is one of unity and class. Whatever you do, make sure your decisions serve football, not individuals,” Haufiku said.

“He didn’t know about the meeting. It was a coincidence, but his words were powerful and timely,” he added.

Haufiku called on all stakeholders to reflect on the values he stood for: unity, growth and patriotism.

“After we say our final goodbyes, let’s ask ourselves: Are we truly honouring the legacy of pioneers like Kauraisa? Or are we letting division overshadow the progress they fought for? May his passing be a turning point for us to rebuild Namibian football with unity at the core.”

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na