Windhoek
If Namibian athletes are to realise their true potential and excel at the highest level, then basic sports facilities such as standard football fields, compulsory boxing rings at various gyms countrywide, standard netball courts and athletics tracks should be availed to athletes in all Namibian constituencies.
Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service Jerry Ekandjo recently shared these goals with fellow lawmakers during his ministry’s budget motivation speech.
In his short and well-calculated address, Ekandjo reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the development of sport through well-established and adequately equipped institutions, where athletes have access to basic facilities.
Explaining his ambitious plans of setting up basic facilities countrywide, Ekandjo said the plan is to at least construct new football fields in all constituencies, while facilities that are already existing but dilapidated will be upgraded.
It will not just end with football fields. The minister also promised to give the required attention to the needs of all sports codes.
“The ministry knows that good sports facilities are essential for development, therefore my ministry will continue to invest in the construction and maintenance of facilities to create a conducive environment,” said Ekandjo during his presentation.
“It is for this reason that the ministry would like to encourage local authorities and other sports facility owners to plan and invest in those facilities according to local needs, and also come up with sustainable business plans to reduce reliance on central government.”