Zebaldt Ngaruka

GOBABIS – Former African Stars goalkeeper Colin Maripeuani Ka-Teacher Usurua has transitioned from saving goals on the pitch to raising Brahman cattle in the kraal, becoming a respected farmer in Namibia’s Omaheke region.

Born in Omatjete village in the Erongo region, Usurua joined African Stars during the 1981/82 season. 

He dedicated 17 years to the club before retiring in 1997. 

Now aged 62, he resides at Farm Kameeldoring, popularly known as Orusuuo, near Gobabis. 

A proud white Brahman breeder, his love for agriculture goes back to his childhood, which led him to pursue studies in the field and obtain various qualifications.

“Farming is my life. It feeds families, creates jobs and sustains the economy. I cannot imagine life without it,” he shared.

Even during his football days, he devoted time to farming and training both commercial and communal farmers through his company, Agri Futura. 

Post-retirement, he chose not to venture into coaching, instead focusing on expanding his agricultural work.

“There is no better place than my kraal. My time is now fully dedicated to farming and developing Agri Futura,” he said.

During his football career, Usurua won numerous titles including the Namibia Football Association Cup, BP Top 8, Holsten Cup and the 1994 Mainstay Cup. 

A career highlight was facing Orlando Pirates at the Independence Stadium in the early 1980s when he was a Standard 10 student at the Augustineum Secondary School. 

His standout performance against the sharpshooter Kleintjie Gaseb made his mark in Namibian football.

He recalled a memorable match in 1994 against Black Africa at the Windhoek Showgrounds, where African Stars avenged a recent loss – thanks to a goal by Ben Claver Herunga. 

That same year, he captained African Stars in their first international fixture against Bongo Sport of Zaire, an overwhelming experience due to the massive crowd in Mbuji-Mayi.

Challenges were plenty – his small stature made him a target during corners. 

Work commitments in towns like Okakarara and Tsumeb made travel to matches demanding. 

He even trained with farm workers while conducting agricultural training sessions.

A dark moment in his football journey was a red card he received while defending a teammate as well as a near-death incident in 1985 when he was kicked in the throat during a match against Benfica from Tsumeb. 

He lost his original voice due to the incident.

Usurua lamented the lack of recognition for former players, saying legends like himself often feel neglected by their former clubs and the football fraternity at large. 

“Many are only acknowledged when they pass on. Recognition should come while they are still alive,” he said.

He criticised the stagnant state of Namibian football, citing the lack of cup competitions, modern stadiums and development structures.

His advice to young players is clear: “stay humble, avoid alcohol and drugs, and prioritise your health”.

A supporter of Futsal, Usurua hopes to see more investment in the sport, including the formation of a women’s league. 

His son, Riya Riyenena Usurua, currently represents the national Futsal team.

Today, Usurua enjoys life on his farm with his wife and five children – three sons and two daughters.

He continues to nurture cattle and the spirit of Namibian sports.