Maqonda Ndlovu

Khomas Nampol and Southern Stream First Division Vice Chairperson Christofine Neumbo is excited about her recent appointment as the first Namibian Women’s Caf-accredited Safety and Security officer.

Neumbo also becomes only the third CAF-recognised safety and security officer after Josua Tovey Hoebeb and Steven Namalemo.

Hoebeb and Namalemo are currently the highest qualified and certified trainers among the Caf Safety and Security officers in Namibia, with Hoebeb being called to do international gigs.

Other Namibians currently on the roster are Novata Paulus, Ndenelao Kandiwapa Nangolo, Susanna Eises and Magdalena Paulus, who have Caf certificates in the same course.

Speaking to New Era Sport recently, Neumbo said she was proud to be part of the 14 women selected to attend a recent four-day CAF Safety and Security Officers’ Training Workshop between 4-7 December in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, which brought together 31 participants from all of Caf’s Zones, with 20 countries represented.

More than 200 women had applied to be part of this course.

“I am very proud of my achievement; this is something that I wanted to do. In Namibia, stadium safety during football matches is currently not prioritised. That is one aspect that we need to improve on,” Neumbo emphasised.

She said following that course in December, she has already gained some experience after Caf deployed her to take charge of the Confederation of African Football match between GD Sagrada Esparanca and Zamalek in Luanda, Angola.

The Caf Safety and Security course/certificate educates individuals on safety and security measures specific to football events and venues.

On how the certificate is important, she observed that it is a crucial component in football as it helps ensure the safety of players, officials, spectators and staff during matches and events, addressing issues like crowd control, emergency response and venue security.

“The role of a Caf safety and security officer involves implementing safety protocols, coordinating with local authorities, conducting risk assessments, and overseeing security operations during football events,” Neumbo elucidated.

Caf states that nominees for this course typically need a background in security or related fields. Generally, individuals with experience in event management or security are preferred, although specific qualifications may vary. – jrnmarko@gmail.com