DIVUNDU – In a move set to transform the rural landscape of the Kavango East region, Governor Hamunyera Hambyuka officially broke ground on Saturday for the construction of a basic sports field in Mukwe’s Divundu village.

The ceremony, held in Divundu on Saturday, marked the commencement of a strategic investment aimed at nurturing grassroots talent and bridging the historical gap in rural sports infrastructure.

Speaking at the event, Governor Hambyuka described the project as a “significant milestone” for community upliftment. “Today marks not just a symbolic laying of bricks, but a bold step toward enabling our young people to thrive both on and off the field,” the governor stated.

The Governor emphasised that the initiative is a direct response to the visionary leadership of Her Excellency, President Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and is aligned with national goals. “The project is strategically aligned with the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), which integrates the SWAPO Party Manifesto to ensure that political commitments translate into visible progress,’’ Hambyuka said while noting that under the 8th Administration, sports facilities are no longer viewed as a luxury but as a fundamental investment in human capital and social cohesion. 

The construction tender was awarded to the Roads Construction Company (RCC), with a specific mandate to empower the local economy. Governor Hambyuka urged the RCC and its partners to prioritise local employment, engaging artisans and labourers from Mukwe and surrounding areas who are immediate to the projects.

“We expect a smooth and speedy construction process that respects timelines and adheres to quality standards,” Hambyuka added, stressing that the project must offer “value for money” for the constituents.

Programme Director Joseph Dinyando and various regional leaders, including Mukwe Councillor Augusta Katembo, Rundu Rural Councillor Paulus Mbangu and Rundu Urban Councillor Stefanus Sinonge, attended the ceremony. 

The leaders echoed the sentiment that these fields will serve as more than just match venues; they are intended to become hubs for social interaction and “anchors of hope” for a new generation of athletes.

As the first shovels hit the ground, the message was clear: Kavango East is playing to win, starting at the grassroots level.

-jmuyamba@nepc.com.na