The month of May will always remain marked on the Namibian calendar, as it takes us back to the birth of the “Son of Etunda,” who gave us hope and so much to live for. A month that we should continue to celebrate a figure larger than life itself: Sam Shafishuna Nujoma.

“Namibia is forever free, sovereign, and independent,” declared the Founding President and Father of the Namibian Nation on 21 March 1990. But what did these words really mean to an ordinary Namibian?

This was the birth of a nation, a new dawn for Namibia. These were not merely words, but a new beginning for us all. It translated into opportunities for everyone, whether it was the ability to participate in international sports, access quality education, or venture into business wherever in Namibia you found yourself.

Sports before and after independence

Sport has always been an integral part of Namibian culture, but before independence, Namibians could not participate in international competitions.

Sports were limited locally; one could be incredibly talented but could not go beyond South Africa’s borders to participate in events such as the Olympics or the All-Africa Games.

Namibian athletes were restricted to participating in either the Northern, Central, or Southern regions of the country. They were thereafter declared “South West Africa” champions, with the national team known as the Zebra at the time. From there, one might be selected for the South African national team, known as the Springboks. While that team could represent the country internationally, there were severe sanctions imposed on South Africa at the time due to Apartheid.

A few individuals who lived through these difficult circumstances include Harry Simon, Nestor Tobias, Frank Kayele, Frankie Fredericks, Jacques Burger, and Monica Dahl.

Today, this narrative is different. It is now possible to achieve these dreams from home. This should constantly remind us of the importance of maintaining peace and stability, because without them, we cannot care for our families, attend school, pursue business, or participate in sports.

This is all part of our past, and after independence, we are eligible to participate internationally, representing our own country because, as mentioned, Namibia is forever free, sovereign, and independent.

Today, we celebrate prominent sports figures such as Paulus “The Hitman” Moses, Paulus Ambunda, Christine Mboma, Johanna Benson, Elifas Shivute, and Collin Benjamin, among others.

Currently, as a boxing ring announcer and commentator, I am able to make a living from sports. This was not possible before independence, and we continue to thank those who paid the price of freedom so that we could have these opportunities today.

Carrying on the torch

To keep Nujoma’s legacy alive, we need a change of narrative from our leaders to us as ordinary Namibians. We need to believe that the impossible is possible. We must understand what it takes to make our sports industry a key sector that contributes immensely to our economy’s growth.

Sport is an industry with massive potential to curb youth unemployment if administered correctly. The government has put structures in place for this, but the big question is: Are these structures functional? Are those within these structures living up to the task? Do they have the nation at heart when executing their duties? Are they even passionate about sports, or is it just another individual collecting a paycheck?

These are the questions we must answer to transform our sports sector. I believe that if given the necessary support, we can do better as a nation. We have so much talent, and we should not forget that sports is a form of youth empowerment that speaks directly to young people.

We should also refrain from seeing sports as second to education, as is often the case in Namibian schools today. Schools are where the real scouting of talent should take place. Let us equip teachers with the right knowledge and ensure schools have dedicated individuals who can administer sports correctly. 

Sports and education are equally important; they both decide who our children become.

The 8th administration is speaking boldly about sports, with a focus on facilities, which is commendable. However, it remains crucial that we divert adequate funding to active programmes and create an inclusive funding model for different sport codes. We cannot afford to have dormant structures any longer; the future of our young people depends on it.

Lastly, as institutions, we should continue to incorporate programmes that help us revisit our history, not only regarding our Founding Father but also all our heroes who paid the price for freedom. A great example was the recently concluded “Tribute to His Excellency Dr. Sam Shafishuna Nujoma Boxing Bonanza,” hosted by the MTC Nestor Sunshine Tobias Academy and co-sponsored by PstBet on 9 May at the Mövenpick Hotel.

Events like these remind us of who we are and where we come from. In doing so, we ensure that future generations know their history, and only when you know who you are and where you come from can you truly take pride in everything you do. There is no better way to honour our Founding President than through tangible programmes like these, as they reflect his vision of a progressive and prosperous Namibia for all.

*Absalom Shihepo is a youth leader and boxing ring announcer.