Namibia could emerge as one of the prime beneficiaries of a new global initiative following a joint announcement by FIFA and Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) to provide major financial support for sports infrastructure development in poorer nations.
Under a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), (roughly N$17.1 billion), in concessional loans to help FIFA Member Associations build or upgrade stadiums and the surrounding infrastructure to meet FIFA certification standards.
In its statement, FIFA stressed that the funding would be channelled toward nations with “clear strategies to harness sport for national development,” with priority given to those lacking world-class infrastructure. The partnership is framed not merely as a sports upgrade programme, but as a broader social-economic development tool that fosters social inclusion, youth empowerment, job creation, tourism, and community cohesion.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino emphasised, “Many of our FIFA member associations need additional support for the infrastructure necessary to host competitions.”For a country like Namibia, this announcement could not come at a better time. Despite a long-standing football culture and a passionate national fan base, Namibia has never had a stadium that meets full FIFA certification standards. The lack of a FIFA-approved stadium has meant that national and international fixtures are often played abroad, depriving local fans of the chance to support their teams in person.
Football player Willy ‘Awillo’ Stephanus said a modern, multi-purpose stadium with facilities for players, officials and spectators; safe, modern, and capable of hosting international matches, regional tournaments, and local league games alike would not only elevate the status of domestic football, but could serve as a hub for community sport, youth development programmes, and broader social initiatives.
“For us players and fans alike, the benefits would be tangible: home-ground advantage that can lift performance, plus the sense of pride and belonging that comes from playing and watching at home,” he said. Another footballer, Lovisa Mulunga, said playing matches at home gives players what is known as the 11th man advantage, and that over the past few years that advantage has been taken away because home games are being played away.
“Another important factor is that it builds more confidence within players, one generally plays even better when the support is closer, the likes of friends and family watching and cheering for you; Outside player benefit or importance- home games bring people together, and that is the beauty of football,” she added.”
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na