The Namibia Schools Sport Union (NSSU) has revealed its decision to withdraw from the Confederation of Southern African Schools Sports Associations (Cosassa) due to ongoing organisational challenges within the regional body.

NSSU’s Rodger Kambatuku made these remarks in response to questions about why they did not send a team to represent Namibia at the Cosassa Games, which began yesterday in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. 

NSSU president Roger Kambatuku cited a failed trip that was organised by the previous NSSU coordinator, Solly Duiker, in 2022, as well as broader concerns about Cosassa’s leadership and operations as reasons for the withdrawal.

“Remember, after the situation that transpired in 2022, where Cosassa arranged games that didn’t happen, the sport ministry issued a directive that NSSU cuts ties with Cosassa,” he stated.

He added: “Since joining, I have also observed that the body or organisation needs some sort of reform. Honestly, it’s not a body that one wants to associate themselves with right now”.

He highlighted the situation in Botswana, where there is no schools sport body, even though the president of Cosassa is from Botswana, suggesting that it reflects poorly on the organisation.

Regarding the importance of the games for youth and sport development at the grassroots level, Kambatuku acknowledged their significance, but reiterated the need for reform within Cosassa. 

“It’s indeed a great platform for school-level athletes to hone their skills and try to cross over, but Cosassa needs a new body with different leaders. Look at the bigger countries like South Africa and Angola – not being part of this year’s tournament says a lot about the organisation,” he noted.

In terms of solutions, he revealed that NSSU is reconsidering its decision, but is also exploring other equally important tournaments, where young athletes can compete and improve their skills.

 “This year, we sent a team to Kenya and a football team to China to compete in schools activities, and that’s what we are prioritising at the moment,” he added.

 – mkambukwe@nepc.com.na