Windhoek, 27 February 2026
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Sport and football in particular hold a special place in the hearts of our people. It inspires communities, nurtures talent among our youth, and creates moments that unite Namibians across regions, generations and backgrounds.
Today’s occasion also builds upon an important legacy. Many Namibians will recall that this competition follows in the footsteps of the Dr Hage Geingob Cup, which for many years served as a platform for promoting football development and national unity.
The late president Dr Hage Geingob was widely recognised as a passionate supporter of Namibian football, even before assuming the highest office in the land. His appreciation for sport reflected a clear understanding that football possesses a unique ability to bring people together and strengthen national pride.
As we turn a new chapter today, we do so in recognition of that foundation, while continuing to advance the growth and professionalisation of sport in Namibia.
Today, we continue to honour the legacy of our late first prime minister and third president Dr Hage G. Geingob by naming the NFA Presidential Cup after him, as we all know him as a lover of football.
In my younger years, I actively played netball, and the lessons learned through sport have remained with me throughout my life.
Sport teaches discipline. It teaches teamwork and perseverance. It teaches respect for rules, for teammates, and even for opponents.
Most importantly, sport teaches us that success is achieved through collective effort. These values extend far beyond the playing field and remain essential in leadership, community development and nation building.
I therefore accepted this honour wholeheartedly, as it aligns with our shared belief in the transformative power of sport to unite our people, nurture young talent and inspire national pride.
In fulfilment of the priorities outlined in the 2024 Swapo Party Election Manifesto Implementation Plan, as well as Namibia’s national development agenda, the government remains committed to the structured and professional development of sport in our country.
We have therefore set an ambitious target to construct basic sports facilities across all 121 constituencies, establish fourteen centres of excellence aligned with Confederation of African Football (CAF) Category 2 stadium standards across all the regions, and develop five CAF Category 3 stadiums in the //Kharas, Khomas, Erongo, Oshana and Kavango East regions by the year 2030.
These facilities will serve as platforms for youth development, promote healthy lifestyles, strengthen social cohesion, and unlock economic opportunities linked to sport.
Our commitment is already being demonstrated through the recent launch of eleven basic sports constituency facilities in Oshana region earlier this week by the regional governor, Hofni Iipinge.
The professionalisation of sport has the potential to create meaningful employment opportunities for our young people, contribute to economic growth, and help address social challenges facing our communities.
Sport today represents far more than recreation. Across the world, it has become a significant economic sector capable of generating jobs, stimulating tourism and positioning nations on the global stage.
I therefore invite individuals, the private sector and potential sponsors to partner with sport federations and associations across Namibia. Through collaboration between government, private partners and other stakeholders, we can unlock the full potential of sport as a driver of development and national progress.
In conclusion, I wish to convey my sincere gratitude to the leadership of the Namibia Football Association for keeping the name of our third president, Dr Hage G. Geingob, held high as a lover of football.
May this cup inspire healthy competition among teams and supporters alike, while strengthening the bonds that unite us as one nation.
I thank you.
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