South Africa has kicked off the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games in emphatic style, leading the medal standings with a commanding total of 24 medals after just one day of competition. 

This impressive start reaffirms South Africa’s strong position in regional sport and highlights the depth of talent being cultivated within the country’s youth development structures. 

The early results reflect strategic investment, dedicated athletes and a national commitment to excellence across various sporting codes.

Sport, however, is not just about gold, silver and bronze. 

It is about opportunity, progress and inspiration.

 This inspiration is clearly spreading across the region.

Namibia, currently sitting in 4th place, deserves recognition and congratulations for their commendable performance thus far. 

In recent years, Namibia has emerged as one of the most exciting sporting nations in Southern Africa. 

The legacy of legendary sprinter Frank Fredricks still resonates.

 His influence paved the way for a new generation of Namibian athletes.

Today, that legacy is carried forward by stars like Christine Mboma and Beatrice Masilingi, two exceptional young sprinters who have captured global attention and placed Namibia firmly on the world athletics map. 

Their rise is proof that talent exists everywhere and simply needs the right environment to grow. 

Mboma and Masilingi are not only medal-winners. 

They are role models, whose stories serve as a powerful testimony to the transformative impact of sport in Namibian communities.

Their achievements have reignited passion and belief in sport within the country.

 The current performance at the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games is a continuation of that growing momentum. 

Namibia’s young athletes are stepping onto the regional stage with confidence and determination.

 That deserves both applause and encouragement.

While South Africa currently enjoys the spotlight for their medal dominance, countries like Namibia are steadily building towards long-term sporting success. 

With the right support, infrastructure and continued emphasis on youth development, Namibia has the potential to become a regular powerhouse in the region.

We implore Namibia to keep nurturing this momentum. 

Sport is more than competition. 

It is a tool for nation-building, personal growth and social upliftment. 

It teaches discipline, provides opportunity and unites people across boundaries. 

Every medal won is not just for the athlete but the country – for the communities that support them and the dreams they represent.

As the AUSC Region 5 Youth Games continue, let us celebrate the victories both big and small. Let us honor the leaders, challengers and dreamers. South Africa’s lead is commendable, but Namibia’s rise is equally inspiring.

May this be games not only remembered for the medals won, but the stories that shaped them and the bright future of sport in our region.

*Anfried Moyo is a teacher in Rundu.