Kerihivi Kamburona is a promising young football talent, currently playing as an attacking midfielder for Kasaona in the MTC Hopsol Youth League. 

Having started his football journey at a young age, his passion for the game was inspired by his uncle, who played a pivotal role in motivating him to pursue a career in football. 

Despite having to balance schoolwork with football, the player has shown great dedication, becoming a leader at his academy. 

With ambitions to play for the national team and abroad, he is determined to continue his development, and make his mark in Namibian football. New Era Sport sat with him to find out what makes him tick.

Can you share a bit about your background and how you started playing football? 

I started playing football at a very young age, and quickly fell in love with the sport. I first joined Cattle Country in Gobabis, Omaheke region, before moving to African Stars, and now I play for Kasaona.

Who motivated you to follow a career in football, and did you have any relatives who played the sport as well?  

My uncle truly motivated me to play football. Watching him win trophies and medals made me want to become a football player too.

Most memorable match?

The match we played against Ramblers in the MTC Hopsol Youth League last season, which ended in a 2-all draw.

Biggest disappointment?

Not making it to the last eight in the MTC Hopsol League this season.  

Biggest influence on your career?

My parents because they have supported me throughout my career.  

Favourite footballer:

My favourite international player is Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior. Locally, I would say Uetuuru Kambato. 

Your ambitions for 2024?

My ambition is to continue being the skipper at this great football academy, and steer it to greater heights.

How do you manage to balance your football commitments with your schoolwork, and what challenges do you face in doing so? 

As much as I love football, I make sure I complete all my schoolwork before heading to training. It’s a challenge sometimes, but discipline is key.

You play for a football academy. How has that experience shaped your development as a player, and what are the key lessons you have learned there?  

My football skills improved when I joined Kasaona – thanks to coach Mammie Kasaona, who always pushes me to do better every day. One important lesson I have learned is that people will always criticise, but you must go for what makes you happy. That’s why I strive to keep doing my best.

Do you believe there are enough football academies in Namibia, or do you think there should be more to nurture talent across the country?  

I think there are enough academies in Namibia, but football is often neglected in rural areas. I hope we get more people to sponsor small tournaments in these areas, so that talented players can be scouted and get exposure.

How important do you think football academies are in developing young players, and do you feel they are crucial for early talent development in Namibia?  

Football academies are very important for developing young players. They provide the right guidance and environment to nurture early talent, which is crucial for Namibia’s football development.

What advice would you give to other young players looking to make their mark in Namibian football and potentially represent their country?  

My advice is to never give up, and keep working hard. Eventually, it will pay off.

What are your future goals as a football player in terms of your club career and with the national team?  

Right now, I am fully focused on Kasaona. I want to help the team succeed, especially as it looks to join the third division soon. My dream is to play for the national team and, eventually, abroad.