Namibian amateur boxers clinched gold and four bronze medals at the just-ended inaugural Mandela African Boxing Cup, which took place at the International Convention Centre in Durban, South Africa.

From the group of 11 boxers sent to the competition, Trofimus Johannes won the goal medal, as well as N$95 425 after defeating Chala Waziri of Tanzania, thus becoming the African champion in the 54kg division. 

Johannes will represent Namibia at the Africa IBA World Championship.

Ndapandula Ngesheya (48kg), Imene Tomas (48kg), Fillipus Heveleni (80kg) and Salmi Shipwata (80kg) all earned bronze medals and N$28 194 each in prize money.

Ngesheya settled for bronze after losing to South Africa’s Vuyolwethu Dila. Imene lost to Retselisitsoe Kolobe of Lesotho, whereas Heveleni could not progress to the final after losing to Lucasi Changalawe of Tanzania. 

In the women’s category, Shipwata settled for bronze as she was defeated by Muriel Sithole of SA.

One of the coaches who accompanied the team, Teofilus Hamutumbangela, said the money will be deposited in the boxers’ accounts. 

The Namibia Boxing Federation thanked the sports ministry for making the trip to Durban possible. “Your support has been invaluable in enabling our athletes to showcase their skills and represent our nation on the international stage.

While we celebrate these achievements, we are also motivated to strive for even greater success in the future. 

Furthermore, we express our sincere appreciation to the International Boxing Association (IBA) for their unwavering support towards our team and all teams across Africa. The IBA’s dedication to the sport has made the dreams of African boxers a reality, and we are grateful for their contribution to the advancement of boxing on the continent,” read the statement. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na