SWAKOPMUND – Top cyclist Vera Looser and Mixed Martial Artist Veja Hinda were the biggest winners at this year’s Namibian Annual Sports Awards (Nasa), held at the MTC Dome in Swakopmund on Saturday.
Looser won the most coveted Nasa Sportswoman of the Year as well as Nasa Sport Star of the Year, with Hinda taking home the Nasa Sportsman of the Year award.
Speaking after the event, Unatjari Hinda, the brother of Veja, who received the award on behalf of his brother said the award meant the world to the MMA fighter.
“I would want to thank my parents for supporting him throughout his entire career and also for putting in resources to ensure he competes, but these awards are a testimony that for every hard work there is a reward, and I know this means the world to him,” he said.
Erongo governor Neville Andre Itope’s welcome remarks were read by Erenst Manfred Wetha, the councillor of Omaruru, who said sport plays a vital role in society by promoting a healthy and active lifestyle and fostering lifetime values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance.
“The people we are honouring today have become our country’s ambassadors on the global stage. These awards have become a significant event in our sporting calendar as we celebrate the achievements of athletes, coaches, and support staff. Let’s not forget that behind every successful athlete, there is a support system that plays an integral part,” he said.
He added that all the athletes should take immense pride in their accomplishments, as they have set an example for all Namibian youths.
Irvine Ndjavera delivered a speech on behalf of the Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service, Agnes Tjongarero, who said the sport sector has made remarkable strides despite various challenges.
“We created a rewards policy in addition to the yearly rewards to recognise the achievements of our athletes. We will award more than 20 categories. The number has, over the years, risen from 14 categories in prior years. I urge you to focus on your God-given skills and remain resilient. Look ahead and never let setbacks disturb you. Let us focus on rural talent, as we have seen that Namibia has talent,” she said.
Tjongarero said sport is a business that can make an impact and become an economic and employment driver, while adding that broadcasters can also contribute to the wellbeing of athletes.