OKAMWANDI – The 12th edition of the Taute Cup concluded in style at the newly built Severin Kambonde Gabriel Ashivudhi Sports Stadium in Okamwandi, Oshana region, with Onamungundo Lions, trading as KK Palace, defeating Nelundu United 4–1 to lift the trophy.
The stadium, located about 10 kilometres from the Oshakati–Oshikuku road, hosted its first major regional tournament this weekend.
Tournament spokesperson Ikolelela Ekandjo outlined the prize package, confirming that KK Palace was crowned champions, walking away with the Taute Cup, gold medals, and a cash prize of N$40 000.
Runners-up Nelundu United collected N$30 000, while Ewaa Tuu secured third place and pocketed N$15 000.
Runs Group, who finished fourth, did not leave empty-handed, taking home N$10 000.
Ekandjo said the committee also recognised individual brilliance and team spirit by handing out special performance awards to other participating clubs.
“In total, this year’s Taute Cup carried a prize value of N$160 000, making it one of the most competitive and rewarding tournaments we have hosted,” he explained.
On the pitch, KK Palace were clinical. Their victory was celebrated not just by the players but also by the fans who flocked to Okamwandi in large numbers.
KK Palace coach, Sakaria Shafa Kambonde, credited his squad’s determination and team spirit for the triumph.
“The boys showed character. We came here with one mission to win, and they delivered. This is not just for the team but for the entire Onamungudo community,” he said proudly.
Despite being in its initial phase of development, the facility met basic standards to host football and netball competitions, drawing a massive turnout from surrounding villages.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, sport portfolio minister Dino Ballotti, who officially inaugurated the stadium, praised the community-driven project. “This stadium is not a government project but a community investment. It shows what people can achieve when they come together. Sports are more than games; they are about unity, discipline, and creating opportunities for young people,” Ballotti said.
NFA president Robert Shimooshili hailed the competition as a breeding ground for future stars.
“The Taute Cup continues to produce talent that later feeds into our regional and national teams. Seeing this level of organisation and passion assures us that Namibian football has a bright future,” he remarked.
The stadium itself drew as much attention as the matches.
For many locals, this was their first time watching competitive football in a proper sports facility within their area.
The stands were filled with school children, families, and veteran football supporters, while vendors around the grounds sold food and drinks, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Community elder Hiskia Kamati, who attended the finals, described the event as historic.
“Never before have we had such a stadium in our village. For us, this is a dream come true. Football has always united us, but now we have a real home for it,” said Kamati.
As the Taute Cup trophy glittered under the Okamwandi sunset, the combination of sporting excellence, leadership presence, and community pride marked the tournament as one of the most memorable in recent memory.
With further upgrades promised, the Severin Kambonde Gabriel Ashivudhi Stadium is set to become a permanent stage for future regional competitions.