A five-day leadership training initiative was launched at Ongwediva to increase women’s representation and influence in sport governance.
The lack of women’s leadership in sport has been a bone of contention for decades, which is why the Namibia Women in Sports Association (Nawisa), in partnership with the Namibia Sports Commission (NSC), has launched a train-the-trainer programme to capacitate women trainers.
In a statement Nawisa posted in partnership with the NSC on social media, the organisations say the programme is aimed at accelerating women’s representation and influence in sport governance across the country.
The initiative, underway at Ongwediva in the Oshana region, kicked off yesterday and will run until 2 August under the theme ‘Raising the Game – Advancing Women’s Leadership in Sport’.
The programme empowers delegates with the competencies to cascade critical knowledge to their respective regional and community structures, ensuring a lasting institutional impact.
Nawisa president Rauha Haipinge says: “This programme is not merely a training event, it is a commitment to building a sustainable pipeline of competent women leaders who will drive policy, governance, and participation in sport at every level.
“By empowering trainers who will replicate this knowledge, we are ensuring the advancement of women in sport is deeply rooted in our communities.”
The programme progresses from foundational leadership to practical management on day two, themed ‘The Leader as Manager’.
Facilitated by Idda Shipuata, the sessions have thus far covered strategic planning, organising, team building, conflict resolution, and budget development, reinforcing financial accountability and sound record-keeping.
Tomorrow, the focus shifts to ‘Women Leadership in Practice’, where Haipinge will guide delegates through the intricacies of establishing a sport club, securing funding, and drafting compelling sponsorship proposals.
Another facilitator, Suzana Malunga, will tackle community participation, grassroots development, youth leadership, and disability inclusion under the Sport for All framework.
Saturday will centre on sustainability, where Malunga will lead the development of regional action plans, implementation strategies, and monthly performance targets, followed by group presentations and peer feedback.
Nawisa is the national umbrella body committed to advancing gender equity, leadership development, and active participation of women and girls across all sporting disciplines in Namibia.
Through advocacy, capacity building, and strategic partnerships, Nawisa fosters an inclusive sporting environment that empowers women as athletes, administrators, coaches, and decision-makers.
