Paralympic athletes Ananias Shikongo and Johannes Nambala have made a generous donation to the School of the Visually Impaired in Windhoek. 

The athletes, representing the Sport on the Move Foundation, presented specially-designed training balls equipped with bells inside.

 This allows visually impaired players to track their location through sound.

Shikongo and Nambala, both decorated Paralympians with multiple medals to their names, highlighted the importance of giving back to their community. 

“You never forget where you came from. We have already donated a week ago at the Eluwa Special School, where we were once students. Now, we are here at the School of the Visually Impaired, preparing these kids for the upcoming games,” Shikongo said.

He added that the ultimate goal is to prepare future champions for events like the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and other Paralympic competitions.

Nambala echoed Shikongo’s sentiments, highlighting the long-term vision of Sport on the Move Foundation. 

“The main vision of the foundation is to meet the government halfway. Many sport codes in Namibia rely heavily on government funding. Without it, we have limited opportunities to travel or compete. We aim to prepare athletes for major events like the World Championships, Olympics and Paralympics,” he said.

The students were filled with excitement and gratitude upon receiving the donation. 

Joseph Shikongo, a learner at the school, said “I feel great and I appreciate this donation because it will help me start training”.

Tjiutu Ngava, another student, shared: “I’ve looked up to Ananias since I was a child. I used to watch him on television, and say I want to be like him one day. The fact that he came here to donate these gifts makes me feel highly-appreciated. He’s one of my biggest motivators” she said.

‘ -lmupetami@nepc.com.na