Region 5 Games preparations advance significantly 

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 11th edition of the AUSC Region 5 Games has reported substantial progress following a highly productive seven-day meeting held in Windhoek. 

The gathering, which concluded on Tuesday, brought together key stakeholders including representatives from the Regional Organising Committee, general team managers, delegates from the Confederation International, and chefs de mission from all ten participating nations.

Discussions over the past week centred on the meticulous planning and organisation required to host the prestigious youth games, scheduled to take place in Windhoek from 4 to 13 July 2025. Delegates also undertook site visits to the facilities in Swakopmund, which will serve as venues for swimming and athletics. 

A highlight of the week was Sunday’s official team sports draw, which generated considerable anticipation for the upcoming competitions in basketball, netball, football, and both beach and indoor volleyball.

On the final day, the LOC presented a comprehensive update on their preparations, complemented by reports from the confederations on the readiness of their respective sporting codes. The chefs de mission conveyed their satisfaction with the overall progress achieved.

Dr Ndeulipula Hamutumwa, chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, stated: “The visit of the chefs de mission was invaluable. Following productive site visits and the commitments we secured for necessary upgrades, I am pleased to confirm the competition venues. Furthermore, we are delighted to announce the confirmed locations for the Games Villages in both Windhoek and Swakopmund, ensuring optimal comfort and convenience for all participating delegations.”

Hamutumwa further emphasised the LOC’s commitment to open communication: “I want to personally assure all chefs de mission that my door, and that of the Games General Manager, is always open. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us at any time, along with your respective cluster heads. We are here to provide our full support.”

Namibia is expressing its enthusiasm for hosting the event. “Namibia is incredibly proud to host the largest youth multi-sport games in the SADC region,” Hamutumwa remarked. “We have a strong history of successfully hosting significant events, and we are deeply honoured to welcome the AUSC Region 5 Games.”

In a significant development, the 11th edition of the Games will embrace inclusivity by including Special Olympics athletes for the first time. “Inclusivity is a core value for these Games and for Namibia,” Hamutumwa affirmed. “This marks a significant and positive step forward, and we strongly encourage all participating governments to prioritise and support gender balance and equal opportunities for all our talented young athletes, including those with special needs.”

Hamutumwa also acknowledged the crucial role of the Regional Organising Committee: “I extend my sincere appreciation to the Regional Organising Committee, especially the chair, Stanley Mutoya, for their invaluable guidance and support. We will continue to work closely with them to ensure the successful delivery of these Games.”

Hamutumwa extended well wishes to the departing delegations: “On behalf of the entire Local Organising Committee and our dedicated volunteers, I wish all visiting delegations a safe journey back home. We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring an exceptional and successful 11th edition of the AUSC Region 5 Games.”