A source close to the Namibia Football Association (NFA) revealed that the football house is working diligently to get everything in order before the league’s kickoff. 

This follows after the top-flight league’s main sponsor, Debmarine Namibia, issued a series of ultimatums earlier this month.

They made it clear that the release of sponsorship funds would be contingent upon the NFA meeting specific conditions.

 The source, who spoke under anonymity, said one of the key tasks that the NFA has completed is finalising the fixtures for the 2024/2025 season.

 Despite this progress, the NFA has yet to set a concrete date for the league›s commencement. 

The league was initially scheduled to begin last weekend, but delays have arisen, as the NFA continues to engage with its sponsors, particularly Debmarine’ Namibia, to address the demands they have outlined concerning the future of their partnership.

Earlier this month, Debmarine communicated its concerns to the league’s general secretary, emphasising the need for the NFA to manage professional conduct, and uphold the principles and values of the partnership. 

The sponsor stressed the importance of ensuring that participating clubs adhere to the agreed rights, obligations, terms and conditions outlined in their agreement. 

Additionally, Debmarine called for the NFA to protect the brand and reputation of the sponsor.

One of the propositions made by Debmarine focused on the professional conduct of certain clubs, specifically regarding their kit and its branding. 

The sponsor also underscored the importance of engagements between the Working Team, comprising Debmarine and NFA officials, which should be chaired by the general secretary, and thoroughly documented in meeting minutes.

In terms of accessibility, Debmarine has called for improvements in granting access to their directors, management and staff to all premiership games. 

They also emphasised the necessity of being informed well in advance of the fixtures, and any potential cancellations or postponements.

 Regarding branding, the sponsor insists that participating clubs must grant them access to brand all fields where premiership games are held.

They also requested that there should be no competition from individual club sponsors to ensure optimal brand visibility.

Furthermore, Debmarine has stipulated that their support for the league will continue only for this season, with an investment of N$18 million.

This is contingent upon the NFA and the clubs, supported by Fifa, developing a concrete plan for the league’s independence by the 2025/26 season. 

The proposed plan envisions a model where the league operates as a separate entity, potentially with or without a minority stake by the NFA, responsible for its day-to-day running and governance. 

This structure would help create a brand attractive to other corporate investors.

“This plan should be signed off by the NFA and the clubs, and endorsed by Fifa,” Debmarine stated. 

“The plan should then culminate in the league being fully-independent by the commencement of the 2025/2026 season.”

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na