OKONGO – The highly-anticipated Lieutenant-General Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah Annual Tournament concluded yesterday after four days of exciting competition, community pride and celebration in Okongo.
The tournament kicked off on Thursday with an exciting opening match between Green City Football Club and Young Tops.
During the weekend, the event united athletes, fans and leaders to showcase talent and solidarity.
This year’s edition included football, netball and the legends’ games.
A total of 39 football teams from across Namibia competed for top honours, while 12 netball teams and 12 legends’ teams, consisting of senior youth, also participated.
The tournament attracted high-profile guests, including President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, who attended with her spouse and the event’s founder First Gentleman Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Epaphras Ndaitwah.
Matches were held at Oshela Senior Secondary School, Okongo Combined School and Elia Weyulu Senior Secondary School.
Now in its sixth year, the annual sport tournament has grown into more than just a sporting event. It promotes sportsmanship, teamwork and discipline while fostering unity among the youth. Organisers emphasised its role in positively engaging young people, aiding in crime prevention and discouraging harmful behaviours. Okongo Village Council chairperson Frieda David stated that the tournament is a valuable asset to the community.
“It benefits Okongo in many ways. It stimulates the local economy and puts our town on the national map,” she said.
Okongo constituency councillor Efraim Shipindo expressed enthusiasm.
He stated that the tournament plays an important role in guiding the youth.
“When our young people are busy with sport, they stay away from crime and alcohol. This tournament gives them something positive to look forward to,” the councillor said.
Beyond sport, the tournament fostered a lively atmosphere, as vendors and small businesses thrived, and families and friends gathered to enjoy the games.
The spirit of celebration and togetherness was felt across the town, marking another successful chapter of the tournament.