With little progress in sight while its state continues deteriorating, the Otjiwarongo municipality donated the Mokati stadium to the Namibia Football Association, hoping the FA will take better care of it.  This includes upgrading the facility through various NFA funding models, including the money it receives from the football governing body, New Era understands. 

NFA secretary general Charles Siyauya said it is premature for the association to provide details on the recent news regarding the stadium.

The significant development was reported by a local broadcaster, which revealed that the Otjiwarongo municipality has approved to transfer ownership to the NFA. In response to the announcement, Siyauya could not disclose the anticipated costs associated with the stadium’s upgrade, or specify which other stadiums are being considered for future improvements. However, he assured that the NFA plans to release information about their upcoming projects and initiatives in due course. “We have not yet received any official communication from the Otjiwarongo municipality, but I would like to confirm that our discussions with the municipality have been very positive,” he stated.

Otjiwarongo municipal council chairperson Gothardt Hoko said details of the agreement between the council and the NFA are still being finalised. 

He emphasised that both parties are working through the technicalities and logistical aspects before formalising the agreement.

Hoko described the donation as a mutually-beneficial arrangement, highlighting that Mokati Stadium, which currently has a seating capacity of just 500, will undergo substantial renovations. 

The planned upgrades include expanding the stadium’s area from 8.5 hectares (ha) to 10 ha, the addition of two football pitches, netball and basketball courts, and the construction of a running track.

This initiative aligns with the NFA’s broader strategy of enhancing existing sports facilities across the country to meet Fifa standards for local, regional and international matches. 

Hoko expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting that it represents a significant step forward in promoting sportsmanship and developing athletics infrastructure in Namibia.-lmupetami@nepc.com