Fifa president Giovanni Infantino and secretary general Mattias Grafström’s Sunday visit to Namibia has been postponed, as announced yesterday.

The visit was part of a six-nation tour across Southern Africa but has been delayed due to
unexpected adjustments in Infantino’s itinerary.

The Fifa delegation was set to engage in high-level discussions with the NFA and the sport ministry, exploring areas of collaboration aimed at advancing the local game’s professional and infrastructural standards.

In partnership with the Fifa Regional Office in South Africa, the Namibia Football Association (NFA) is actively working to arrange a new date for the visit. Interim general secretary, Cassius Moetie conveyed his eagerness to host Infantino soon. 

“We look forward to welcoming Infantino and continuing important discussions on the development of football at both local and international levels, as well as advancing Fifa Forward initiatives,” Moetie stated.

The NFA has coordinated with various stakeholders, including government agencies, the City of Windhoek, and private partners, to ensure the rescheduled visit is impactful and successful. 

“The association sincerely apologises for any inconvenience caused by this change and thanks everyone for their understanding. The NFA remains dedicated to promoting football in Namibia and will announce the new date once it has been finalised,” Moetie further said.

Additionally, the NFA Technical Centre will be closed for the launch of the Football for Schools programme, scheduled for this weekend, as well as the Talent Development Scheme. The latter is an Arsene Wenger-driven initiative at Fifa which would require NFA to have U/15 and U/17 boys’ and girls’ leagues in all the 121 constituencies.  -lmupetami@nepc.com.na