The Minifootball Association of Namibia will be celebrating Namibia’s 36th Independence with a Global Cup 7-a-side tournament in Windhoek from 13 – 15 March 2026.

The tournament honours countries that supported Namibia’s liberation struggle by using football as a living bridge between history and the present. 

Shared moments on the field will help preserve collective memories, strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties, and pass important historical lessons to younger generations.

Invited teams include Irmandade FC from Angola, Exceeding Grace FC from Ghana, and Orlando Pirates Fives from South Africa. With local teams including 7 Kings FC, Chile FC, and Selecao.

According to the Minifootball Association of Namibia president, Edward David, hosting the tournament is symbolic for mini football as it reflects unity, progress, and international collaboration.

“For us, the tournament marks a major milestone as it showcases our organisation’s capacity, growth and ambition to be a respectable sport both regionally and globally,” David said.

David further stated that independence is about freedom, unity, and national building. Therefore, the tournament will allow the association to use sport as a platform to honour those values. 

“It will also reinforce the idea that sport is a powerful tool for social youth empowerment and international friendship, which aligns perfectly with the spirit of independence,” he said.

The association hopes for the participation of these teams to send a strong message that Africa unites coast beyond borders. To demonstrate how sport can bring nations together. The tournament will highlight football as a common language that unites Africa while celebrating diversity and shared values.

For the local teams, they are set to benefit from exposure to international competitions, high-level play, and competition against foreign teams to improve strategic awareness. 

“Participating in international events is a clear indication of the team’s progress. The challenges that we are currently facing is we don’t have facilities in Namibia,” David stressed.

Mini football is growing rapidly globally, and the association aims to be part of the momentum. One of their goals is to have regular national leagues, annual international tournaments, and consistent presentation in continental and global competitions. 

The association is also committed to developing youth and women with various programmes planned for the year.  -hnalupe@nepc.com.na