Over 700 children are now a part of a cricket development programme initiated by Cricket Namibia in partnership with FNB Namibia five years ago.
According to the Outjo Cricket Development’s manager Wilhelm Tuhafeni, cricket practice for both boys and girls takes place at Outjo at Etoshapoort Stadium and Outjo Cricket Grounds.
“Cricket is the fastest growing sport in Outjo, with an estimate of over 700 children between seven and 17 years old taking part in the programme,” he said.
The cricket development programme was initiated in 2014 and aims to introduce the sport of cricket to those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Currently, the programme is only active at Outjo, but plans are underway to expand it to other towns and schools if resources allow.
Tuhafeni says the cricket programme invites all interested school-going boys and girls to progress in hardball cricket where they can either qualify to play for the national teams or work hard for their cricket careers.
“Just like any other sport code, lack of facilities, equipment and financial resources are some of the challenges we are currently experiencing. Over the past four years, we attracted some local businesses to assist us in overcoming these challenges and some have responded positively,” Tuhafeni told YouthPaper.
He believes local authorities and the sports ministry can assist with the development of sports facilities, not only for cricket but for every child who wants to play sports by introducing sports to schools and communities.
“We are aiming to make cricket accessible to every young boy and girl out there in the region. Keeping in mind the financial challenges we are facing as an organisation, we hope more businesses come through to help us reach out to more schools,” Tuhafeni shared.
Those who take part in cricket at the north-western town are coached by a Cricket Namibia employed development officer who is qualified and understands the laws, regulations and is passionate about the sport.
OCD hosts various cricket tournaments throughout the year and Tuhafeni believes players can only grow if they are kept in an active sport system which includes tournaments and festivals.
“Our future plans have been the same over the past five years and we are aiming to remain the best sport code, produce national players, attract corporate investment and make cricket a favourite sport code for all boys and girls,” Tuhafeni said.
