The Namibian Deaf Sports Federation (NDSF) attained its full membership status with the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) over the weekend at a congress held in Paris, France.
The ICSD 51st Congress, which celebrated 100 years of the Deaflympics, was held in Paris, France, from 3 to 6 October.
The congress featured two intense days of discussions, resulting in key decisions shaping the future of deaf sports.
NDSF president Abner Sheya, who attended the 51st congress, said he is proud to see that different member associations are united in their commitment to developing deaf sport, and that Namibia has been given full membership status.
“This is a significant milestone, since the organisation was founded in 2017. With us being inducted as new members, we will be allowed to participate in the 27th Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo 2025 and the 2027 Winter Deaf Festivals,” he said.
He added that despite financial constraints and logistical challenges ahead of the trip to Paris, he is happy with the progress that was made.
“I travelled to the congress on personal funds, as sponsors could not assist due to the short notice. I am deeply grateful to the Namibian Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service, and particularly to Jo-Ann Manuel, the director of sport, for her unwavering support and guidance,” he stated.
He also expressed gratitude to the NamPower Foundation, which has played a vital role since NDSF’s early involvement in the Southern African Development Community Deaf Games and other national events.
“With full ICSD membership, NDSF can now participate in prestigious global competitions, such as the Deaflympics, creating opportunities for Namibian Deaf athletes to compete internationally and strengthen their connection to Deaf culture through sports,” he said.
The president of NDSF stated that with their admission, they are now looking forward to the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics.
“We are ready to participate in various sports, including athletics (100 metres (m), 200m, 400m and 800m), long jump, high jump, volleyball, netball and football, provided we qualify this year in Morocco for the second Deaf Football Championship,” he said.
Sheya also said it has not been an easy road for them, as a federation, but they have grown and learned through the challenges.
“Deaf sport proved that we can achieve anything just like our hearing counterparts. This victory is not just ours. It’s for the entire Deaf community. Nothing about us without us,” he said.
-Nampa