As 2025 draws to a close, renowned boxing promoter Nestor Tobias of the MTC Nestor Sunshine Boxing Academy announced that the Dr Sam Shafishuna Nujoma Boxing Bonanza, a tribute to the late Founding Father, will now be hosted annually.
The next edition is tentatively scheduled for May 2026, with the Windhoek Showgrounds and the Olufuko Centre being considered as possible venues.
Tobias revealed that the event, organised in partnership with the Sam Nujoma Foundation, aims to honour and preserve the legacy of Namibia’s Founding Father, whose influence transcends politics and stretches deeply into the sporting arena, particularly boxing.
He noted that Nujoma’s visionary leadership and dedication to youth empowerment have shaped the careers of many Namibian athletes.
“Dr Sam Shafishuna Nujoma has been an extraordinary leader and served as the Patron of our academy. As a freedom fighter, he led the struggle against oppression and colonialism imposed by white South African. His dedication to building this nation extended far beyond the battlefield; he inspired young people to liberate themselves through education, sports, and hard work,” he said.
Tobias added that the late Founding Father consistently emphasised the importance of representation on global sporting stages such as the African Games, the Olympic Games, and the Commonwealth Games.
He believed that through sport, young people could cultivate discipline and determination while aspiring to become world champions.
Many of Namibia’s celebrated athletes, including Frank Fredericks, Harry Simon, Paulus ‘Hitman’ Moses, Paulus ‘Rock’ Ambunda, and Julius ‘Blue Machine’ Indongo, credit their drive and ambition to the foundations inspired by Nujoma’s leadership.
“Today, countless young Namibians look up to these superstars, who achieved greatness thanks to the vision and sacrifices of our Founding Father,” Tobias explained.
He stressed that the late president must be celebrated not only for his historic achievements but also for his steadfast belief in never giving up, his wisdom, and his lifelong pursuit of a prosperous Namibia.
“His dream of ensuring education and healthcare access for every child remains as vital today as it was during the liberation struggle,” he added.
The annual boxing bonanza forms part of a broader initiative aimed at continuing this legacy by promoting sports, education, and improved healthcare opportunities for Namibian children.
Tobias encouraged the public and business sector to support the event to ensure that Nujoma’s vision is preserved and carried forward.
“Supporting this initiative reaffirms our commitment to empowering every girl and boy child in Namibia to reach their full potential,” he said.
The 2026 edition will feature some of the country’s top boxing talent, including world-rated fighters Fillipus Nghitumbwa, Paulus Ndjolonimus, Mateus Heita, Harry Simon Jr. and Martin Mukungu.
Tobias said the objective is to improve their global standings and secure future world-title opportunities, thus continuing Namibia’s tradition of producing champions through this platform.
Beyond the ring, Tobias emphasised boxing’s far-reaching economic impact. The sport supports diverse industries such as fitness, beauty, medical services, catering, and marketing, while providing young people with pathways out of hardship. He noted that major boxing events can attract global audiences of up to two billion viewers across various platforms.
Tobias expressed gratitude to long-time sponsors MTC and co-sponsor PstBet for their commitment to the sport. He urged more stakeholders to join hands in supporting the annual initiative.
“Together, let us unite and support our young people as we continue with our struggle for economic emancipation,” he said.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na