Zebaldt Ngaruka
The Namibia Horse Racing Association (NHRA) will hold its annual general meeting (AGM) in the capital on Saturday.
NHRA was established in 1997 and officially recognised by the Namibia Sports Commission in 2011. The association currently comprises 14 racing clubs nationwide. Chantelle Mouton, NHRA spokesperson, informed New Era Sports that all affiliated clubs will attend the meeting, which will set the road map. The meeting is scheduled for 09h30 at the NIDA Building, 11 Goethe Street.
“This is a very important gathering for the year. We urged all members to attend, and we need only two from each member club. Their participation will help shape the future of the NHRA,” she said.
The association president, Godfried Mootu, will present his report, while the treasury department, under the auspices of Mutu Katjiuanjo, will also give a financial report.
“We will also look into the 2026 budget and some changes with regard to rules and regulations in horse racing,” he said. Mouton added that there will be discussions on juvenile horses and the percentage of prize money awarded to winning horses. NHRA is affected by a lack of sponsorship for the sport, and this will also be addressed at the AGM.
“Of course, this is a very critical item on the agenda, and it will be looked at at this conference. Sponsorships have depleted, we are left with few, and this affects the development of the beautiful sport loved by many,” she said. The spokesperson further said the MTC – NHRA race events will be debated, where some inputs from stakeholders will be taken. Also, she said the horses’ passports and vaccinations will be addressed.
“We will also talk about entrance fees and VIP treatment as changes are expected to be made from this meeting,” said the spokesperson, adding that the year programme, including the competition calendar, will be outlined at the AGM.
When asked about the requirements to become an NHRA member, Mouton said a club must have a proper constitution, follow the Association’s rules, have at least 10 members with horses, and have access to a suitable racing track. The association is currently led by Godfried Mootu as president, deputised by Nicky Angermund as vice president, while Mutu Katjiuanjo oversees the association’s financial affairs as treasurer. John Wellmann is the secretary; Mouton is a spokesperson, with Edward Zuma Kavirombo as the principal development officer.
Meanwhile, Jamana Barto Ngava is the development officer for the Omaheke region, whereas Karas and Hardap regions are in the hands of George Mouton as their development officer, while Otis Kotjipati is responsible for horse racing development in the vast Otjozondjupa.
Also, Sweety Zamuee and Paul Kaaheke are the two additional NHRA members who will assist in various capacities.
The current leadership will run the association for the next three years, having assumed their roles last year.