A good jolly fellow, Alcino ‘Shorty’ da Costa, arrived in the garden town at a very young age and immediately warmed himself up into the hearts of the predominantly conservative German and Afrikaners community, including folks across the colour line. 

An astute businessman excelling in the electrical and appliance industry, Shorty was a self-styled community activist, who relentlessly fought for the betterment of fellow citizens. 

The outspoken Shorty was an upright fellow, never shy to roll with the punches when the situation demanded it. A prominent figure in the small Portuguese community, Shorty was a staunch sports fanatic and played football as an attacker for the town’s football team, Okahandja Fussball Klub. 

He later formed the mixed race Mannschaft FC at the dawn of the inevitable introduction of multiracial football in Apartheid SWA in 1977. 

Off the pitch, his commitment to improving the lives and living conditions of the marginalised communities did not go unnoticed. 

Namibia and the entire Okahandja community have lost their pillar of strength, a man who has selflessly done so much, bravely stood for equality and justice for all. 

May his sporting soul rest in peace!

Just as the Namibian Football Association (NFA) was coming to terms with the sudden death of their secretary general Charles Shyauya, another devastating blow struck with the sad departure of Executive Council member Michael Stephanus Situde, fondly known as ‘Culture’ in football circles. The Mariental-born football administrator rose through the ranks from the regional level to the top echelons of the country’s governing football body. 

A crowd favourite, ‘Culture’ played club football for Aimablaagte outfits Flying Eagles and Pamo Chiefs as an attacking midfielder. 

A born entertainer, ‘Culture’ played for the gallery and was famous for his trickery and deft touches on the ball, much to the delight of his adoring fans.

Newly promoted Premiership campaigners Rundu Chiefs Football Club mourn the shock deaths of the trio of prominent club members in the shape of former defender Phillip Kauma, Gideon Luwaya and trusted club official Asser ‘CJ’ Muronga. May their collective souls rest in ancestral power! 

The club issued a moving tribute to the bereaved family of the departed loved ones: Rundu Chiefs is deeply saddened by the passing of our former players Phillip Himarwa Kauma, Gindi Luwaya and astute club administrator Asser ‘CJ’ Muronga. 

Kauma was part of the Chiefs’ class of 92.His contributions to the team’s success during his playing career were immeasurable.

His unwavering commitment and affection for the game will be forever remembered by all who had the privilege of sharing the dressing room with him.  Affectionately known as ‘Wa Dumba ya Liyombwa ‘Ngidi’ Munakadi’, a true club stalwart, ‘Ngidi’ is famously known for his strengths, commitment and solid defending as a left-sided fullback, proudly serving the Chiefs family with distinction. 

He leaves behind a long-lasting mark through his dedication, resilience and unquenchable love for the game.        

‘Muronga’s selfless contribution and valuable service to Rundu Chiefs will always be etched in our memories, whilst his hard-to-miss presence amongst the Epangero family will be sorely missed. 

On behalf of Rundu Chiefs Sport Club, management, technical team, players, our staunch supporters and the entire Epangero fraternity, we would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and everybody affected by their sad departure from mother planet’, reads the message of condolences.