The Frank Fredericks Foundation is developing a sport and playground facility at Outjo, offering young people a safe space for recreation and talent development.
A statement from the foundation says founder Fredericks met with Outjo mayor Barthlomeus !Aibeb as part of ongoing engagements with the town’s municipality on the development of the facility for the town’s youth.
The proposed facility will feature a five-a-side soccer pitch, netball court, and a variety of playground equipment, including swings, slides, a merry-go-round and see-saw.
The statement says the project is designed to encourage active lifestyles and participation in sport.
“More importantly, it is a lasting investment in the well-being, recreation, and sporting future of the children of Outjo, providing them with a safe space to play, learn, and develop their talents,” the track legend says.
The initiative is a gesture of appreciation from Fredericks to the people of Outjo for the honour of naming a street after him.
“Through this project, Fredericks hopes to give back to a community that has shown him meaningful recognition while creating a lasting legacy for future generations.”
The foundation has extended its sincere gratitude to the Outjo municipality and the entire council for embracing the vision and making land for the project available.
“Their support and partnership are helping to turn this dream into a reality,” the statement reads.
Outjo spokesperson Kizzy Dudu-Murorua says children and young people will have a safe space to engage in regular physical activity, reducing the risk of obesity and lifestyle-related illnesses.
“The soccer pitch will encourage teamwork, discipline, and athletic skills, potentially nurturing future sport talent. The facility will become a gathering point for families, fostering stronger social bonds and a sense of belonging in the community,” she says.
“With equipment that will cater to different age groups, the playground will promote inclusivity and equal access to recreation. The construction and ongoing maintenance of the safe haven will create job opportunities for Outjo residents.”
Dudu-Murorua says Outjo boasts some of the most well-maintained sport facilities in the country.
“Our current infrastructure already caters to a wide range of sporting codes, including tennis, volleyball, and cricket. However, we are now looking to expand further by introducing facilities for basketball, swimming, and indoor courts for netball and volleyball.
“In addition, we are considering the development of a running track at our sport grounds. These upgrades will elevate our facilities to a new standard, ensuring that Outjo can accommodate all major sporting codes and provide athletes and the community with world-class opportunities.
“We have engaged the governor’s office to explore funding support for the construction of a running track and a bench seater under the multimillion‑dollar National Sport Infrastructure Framework, which aims to strengthen grassroots sports across all 14 regions,” she says.
Dudu-Murorua says although Outjo is not currently among the towns earmarked to benefit directly from the national initiative, the council has formally presented its case for upgrading local facilities.
“We are confident that our request will be given due consideration, and we anticipate a positive response from the governor’s office,” she says.
“External partners such as government offices and the private sector can provide financial support, technical expertise, and equipment the municipality alone may not be able to secure.”
Dudu-Murorua says this would enable young people to access regional and national programmes, scholarships, and competitions, expanding their horizons beyond the local level.
“By expanding facilities and engaging external partners, the municipality aims to positively impact the youth, foster community pride, and attract regional competitions that will boost the local economy,” she says.
Reflecting on the Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup last year, Dudu-Murorua says: “When Outjo hosted the 2025 Newspaper Cup, the event left a lasting mark on the community’s perception of sport and the importance of maintaining quality facilities.
“The successful tournament showcased how well prepared Outjo is to host major sporting events, reinforcing the town’s reputation as a hub for athletics in the Kunene region and Namibia at large.
“The Newspaper Cup highlighted the need for modern, well-maintained sport grounds.”
Dudu-Murorua says residents saw first-hand how upgraded facilities attract regional competitions and inspire youth participation.
“The community plays a vital role in protecting and preserving these facilities. By safeguarding them, they ensure longevity of investment, continued opportunity, youth development, and safe, accessible facilities guaranteeing that future generations benefit from structured sporting activities.”
