Hilma Nalupe 

The AUSC Region 5 Judo Games wrapped up on 10 July 2025, at the Windhoek Showgrounds after three days of intense action, marking another significant step for the development of judo in the Southern African region. 

Hosted in Namibia from July 8–10, the games saw young judokas from across Region 5 compete in various weight classes and team events. The sport brought together a total of 60 athletes – 26 girls and 34 boys – who competed in individual and mixed team events representing eight countries from Southern Africa. 

While the competition was fierce, it was also an opportunity for growth, especially for the host nation. The competition gave young Namibian judokas a chance to compete on home soil and gain valuable experience. 

Namibia Judo Federation president Keith Bock acknowledged the challenges the team faced but expressed pride in their participation and performance and highlighted the importance of hosting such regional events. 

“We prepared as best we could. Judo is still a developing and lesser-known sport here, and unfortunately it doesn’t receive much support,” said  Bock. “But being visible on a platform like this gives investors a chance to see and know about the sport. I’m proud of what the team has achieved and that we participated.” 

Team Angola emerged the overall top performer in judo, collecting 13 medals in total, of which six were gold, five silver and two bronze. 

Medal Summary: 

Angola, 13 medals (6 gold, 5 silver, 2 bronze) 

Zambia, 9 medals (5 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze) 

South Africa, 8 medals (2 gold, 6 bronze) 

Botswana, 5 medals (1 silver, 4 bronze) 

Zimbabwe, 3 medals (1 silver, 1 bronze) 

Namibia, 1 medal (1 silver) 

Malawi, 1 medal (1 bronze) 

Mixed Team results (from highest to lowest): 

1 = Team Angola 

2 = Team Zambia 

3 = Team South Africa and Team Botswana 

5 = Team Malawi and Team Zimbabwe 

7 = Team Namibia 

Although Namibia finished seventh in the Mixed Team category, their resilience and participation have laid a solid foundation for future events. With strong individual performances and a growing sense of national pride around judo, the hope is that increased awareness will translate into much-needed support. 

Bock remains optimistic: “We will be better prepared next time. The goal now is to keep the momentum going.” 

With hopes of increased support and preparation for future competitions, Namibia’s judo community sees this event as the beginning of a longer journey towards growth and opportunity. 

-hilmanalupe@gmail.com