Zebaldt Ngaruka
As Namibia celebrated its 36th Independence Day on Saturday under the theme ‘Beyond 36 for a Prosperous Future’, football legends have shared mixed views on the state of the game since independence.
Football has long been a national treasure, both before and after 1990. However, opinions differ on whether the country has done enough to develop the sport over the past three decades.
Former Robber Chanties, Black Africa and African Stars striker Dawid ‘Fella’ Snewe believes progress has been limited.
“Little has been done in terms of football development since independence. There are small improvements, but that is not satisfactory for a country like Namibia,” he said.
Snewe argues that with proper investment, the Brave Warriors should have been among Africa’s strongest teams by now. He also expressed concern over the small number of Namibian players competing abroad.
“We need more players in strong leagues, especially in South Africa, which remains one of the top leagues on the continent,” he said, adding that grassroots structures must be strengthened.
In contrast, former African Stars, Blue Waters and Life Fighters midfielder Cliff Kamarenga sees notable progress, particularly in the decentralisation of football.
“The existence of active second and third division leagues in all 14 regions is a major achievement. In the past, football was concentrated in central areas,” he said.
Kamarenga also praised the Namibia Football Association (NFA) for investing in women’s football, which contributed to the Brave Gladiators’ recent Cosafa success.
“The results from the women’s desk speak volumes. We must commend the authorities for that milestone,” he said.
He recommended stronger collaboration between the Namibia Schools Sports Union and the NFA to revive school football, as well as the construction of standard football fields meeting CAF and Fifa standards. He further called for a functional reserve league to serve as a feeder system to the elite league.
Former Black Africa and Brave Warriors star Sylvester ‘Lolo’ Goraseb reflected on key milestones, including Namibia’s historic 3-2 victory over South Africa in 1998 and qualification for four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
“Hosting the Women’s Afcon in 2016 and winning Cosafa titles are also remarkable achievements,” he said.
Goraseb commended the NFA for rolling out development and education programmes for coaches and administrators and welcomed government’s commitment to upgrading stadiums. However, he called for a review of the Sports Act and improved corporate funding policies to professionalise the sport.
Omaheke legend Peka Semba believes football has made meaningful strides, noting the increasing number of Namibian players competing abroad.
“We have exported more players than before. That shows development,” he said, while urging authorities to strengthen scouting and properly fund youth and school football structures.