Africa-Press – Namibia. THOUGH popular rural tournaments during the festive season unite communities and nurture talent, the Namibia Football Association (NFA) has called on organisers to uphold the rules and maintain fair play.
With the Namibia Premier Football League (NPFL) set for the festive break, and the last fixtures scheduled for this weekend, both villages and towns across Namibia host festive tournaments that attract large crowds and give players a chance to stay active while showcasing their abilities.
NFA spokesperson Isack Hamata says: “These events are deeply rooted in Namibian football culture, particularly in rural areas.
“These tournaments are part of the Christmas festivities. People gather around football fields, reconnect, and enjoy the game. Football brings peace, joy, and unity, especially in rural communities,” he stresses.
He says top-players plying their trade in the NPFL were initially spotted at these tournaments before becoming household names in Namibian football.
Hamata cautions organisers and players to ensure tournaments are sanctioned through regional football structures.
Players registered with clubs must obtain permission before participating in unsanctioned competitions.
“If a tournament wants recognition and support, it must seek approval. This allows the association to assist with referees, match coordination, and safety.”
Among this year’s tournaments is the seventh Okapya Annual Soccer Tournament at Ondangwa, running from today to 21 December.
Organiser Sandro Ithana says the event, which started in 2018, aims to unite youth, reduce crime, and provide a platform for talent.
He adds that organisers work closely with the regional football structures and have informed the NFA about the tournament.
“We always inform the regional association. We also use NFA-accredited referees to ensure fair play and professionalism. Local vendors also benefit, generating income for Christmas and back-to-school expenses,” Ithana says.
In the Kavango East region, the Tanwe Investment Tournament enters its fourth edition this December, attracting teams from Mukwe, Rundu, Giricu, and neighbouring Botswana.
Featuring soccer and netball, the tournament offers young players a constructive platform, while parents and local businesses earn extra income.
Prize money amounts to N$55 900, and the tournament is registered with the NFA, says chairperson Gelasius Kapapero.
“We are excited to host the tournament again this year. It gives young players a chance to showcase their talent and keeps them engaged during the school holidays,” he says.
“We also want the community to come out and support the teams. The tournament is not just about football or netball, it’s about bringing people together and creating a festive environment for everyone.”
The December Sports Spectacle (DSS) Tournament, now in its third edition, runs from 27 to 31 December at Giriku. Founder Michael Kanyanga says the festive season provides the ideal environment, as families return home and communities gather in large numbers.
“The tournament has expanded in size and organisation, with increased team participation, structured stalls for local entrepreneurs, and stricter player registration.”
Kanyanga says both scouts and coaches regularly attend, giving players exposure and opportunities to be discovered.
Despite challenges such as high officiating costs and limited sponsorship, organisers say strong community support, collaboration with regional sport bodies, and disciplined event management have been key to their success, Ithana says.
Kanyanga echoes these sentiments, saying: “Even though securing sponsors is challenging, working closely with local authorities and ensuring everything runs smoothly helps us manage the event effectively. Community involvement has been our biggest strength.”
Daniel Isaack of the Mutete Cup says: “Organising a tournament during the festive season comes with its challenges, but collaboration with the regional association and the dedication of our team ensures the event runs successfully. The community’s support makes all the difference.”
With some tournaments already kicking off, and some about to begin, organisers are urging families and football fans to attend the matches, cheer for the teams, and experience the festive football spirit.
Ithana says: “ We encourage everyone to come out, support the players, and enjoy the games. Your presence motivates the youth and makes the tournament even more exciting.”
“Seeing people in the stands cheering the players on not only inspires the youth but also strengthens community bonds and creates a fun, safe environment for everyone,” says Isaack.
Kapapero says: “Your presence motivates the players and helps make this tournament a success for the entire community.”
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