Despite earlier reports of delays in finalising processes for the start of the Namibia Premier Football League (NPFL), the Namibia Football Association (NFA) has released the prize money and transport allocations for clubs ahead of the 2025/26 season.
However, the announcement has stirred discontent among certain teams, and football fans with some questioning the fairness of the transport fund distribution.
Former Life Fighters Football Club director Terry Ujamba expressed dissatisfaction, describing the NFA’s allocation process as “unfair and inequitable.” He accused the football body of bias and inconsistency in how transport funds were apportioned among teams.
“It is noted with grave concern that the leadership of the Namibia Football Association has failed dismally in the fair and equitable allocation of funds earmarked for transportation for the yet-to-kick-off league season,” Ujamba said.
According to the allocation list from NFA, Life Fighters and Mighty Gunners, both based in Otjiwarongo, received N$31 214.30 each in transport support, while Windhoek-based clubs were allocated N$57 062.40. Ujamba noted that the distance difference between Otjiwarongo and Windhoek, roughly 300 kilometres, does not justify the N$26 000 funding gap.
“This disparity is irrational, unreasonable, and contrary to the principles of fairness and equal treatment that must guide the distribution of association resources. It suggests either gross negligence or deliberate bias, both of which are unacceptable in the administration of football in Namibia.”
Summary of 2025/26 NPFL club allocations
The NFA confirmed that the total financial package for all 16 top-flight clubs amounts to N$11.4 million. Each club will receive a baseline grant of N$650 000, while N$1 million has been distributed collectively for transport costs. The first 50% grant phase totals N$5.7 million.
Highest transport allocations goes to Eeshoke Chula Chula N$129 160.80 and KK Palace N$120 022.31. The lowest allocations are that of Mighty Gunners and Life Fighters N$31 214.30 each.
Most clubs, including Bucs Buccaneers, Tigers, FC Ongos, Unam, and Young African, received N$57 062.40 each. Furthermore, according to the statement with figures released by the NFA, total baseline allocation is N$10 400 000, total transport N$1 000 000, grand total allocation is N$11 400 000 and first 50% pay-out stands at N$5 700 000.
NFA spokesperson Isack Hamata said the traveling grants are not new. “Clubs have also received these in past seasons. Amounts to clubs were based on where they are based and of course the traveling distances between their home bases and various destinations. Previously, there was a uniform approach to paying out the grants. It was the same for all clubs. However, over the last two seasons, the NFA and clubs agreed that disbursement should be based on traveling distances.
“When this season’s amounts were shared, the amounts for some clubs were incorrectly allocated. That has been brought to the attention of the NFA and rectification will be made,” he added.
Prize money allocation
In addition, the NFA announced that this season’s prize structure will reward the league champion with N$850 000, while the runner-up will take home N$420 000. The third-placed team will receive N$320 000, followed by fourth place with N$230 000, and fifth place with N$180 000.
Teams finishing sixth to 10th will also be rewarded, with sixth place earning N$160 000, seventh N$140 000, eighth N$120 000, ninth N$100 000, and 10th N$80 000.
Meanwhile, Young African Football Club has confirmed its participation in the upcoming NPFL season. The club announced that it will continue competing under the NFA structure until the proposed independent Premier League is established in the 2026/27 season.
“After consultations with the NFA Executive Council, the club has resolved to continue its membership within the NPFL for the forthcoming season. Our primary focus remains on assembling a competitive squad and achieving success for our loyal supporters and valued stakeholders,” read a statement from the club.
The team will resume training today following their CAF Confederation Cup campaign. All players have been requested to report as the club begins preparations for the new season.
Young African also invited aspiring players to attend open trials before the NFA registration deadline on Friday. The club will be temporarily based in Windhoek while Legare Stadium in Gobabis undergoes rehabilitation, expected to be completed by January 2026.