RUACANA – The usually quiet town of Ruacana was transformed into a vibrant hub of activity over the Easter weekend as thousands of visitors, traders and sports enthusiasts flocked to the town for the 15th edition of the Ruacana annual easter tournament, demonstrating the growing role of sport in stimulating local economic growth.
The tournament, which started on Friday, concluded on Monday, bringing an end to a weekend that not only celebrated sport but also demonstrated how community events can contribute to local economic growth.
The tournament attracted 99 teams from different parts of the country, drawing large crowds of supporters who filled the sports grounds as matches unfolded throughout the day.
The atmosphere was lively, with cheering spectators, music filling the air around the tournament grounds and vendors lining the area selling food and drinks, creating a festive mood rarely seen in the small border town.
The event was officially opened by Home Affairs and Immigration minister Lucia Iipumbu, who said sport plays an important role not only in bringing communities together, but also in creating economic opportunities for local people.
“Sport has always possessed a unique power. It unites communities, gives young people a sense of purpose and promotes discipline, teamwork and resilience,” she said.
She added that beyond the sporting excitement, events such as the Ruacana Easter tournament can help stimulate local economies by attracting visitors who spend money on accommodation, transport, food and other services.
She further said when properly conceptualised and supported, events such as this attract visitors, stimulate spending, support accommodation establishments, create opportunities for transport operators and benefit food vendors and informal traders.
“With strategic planning, improved recreational infrastructure and strong collaboration between stakeholders, Ruacana can emerge as a recognised tourism and sports destination in northern Namibia,” she said. Security during the tournament remained tight, with the Namibian Police Force deployed across the town to ensure the safety of visitors.
Omusati regional police Commissioner Ismael Basson told New Era that officers were deployed throughout the weekend to maintain order and ensure that people celebrate responsibly.
“Our members are on the ground to ensure that everyone enjoys the Easter weekend safely,” he said. However, some vendors operating at the tournament venue expressed concern about police breathalyser operations conducted close to the venue.
They told New Era that many customers were hesitant to stop and support their stalls out of fear of being tested for alcohol consumption.
One vendor, Claudia Sheehama said while she appreciate the role of law enforcement in ensuring safety, the breathalyser checkpoint being positioned close to the venue discouraged potential customers.
“We understand the police are doing their job, but the breathalyser point is very close to the venue. Customers are afraid to stop because they think they will be tested and arrested,” she said.
Another trader suggested that the checkpoint could be moved further away from the tournament venue so that visitors can freely support local businesses while police continue enforcing road safety measures.