By Michael Uugwanga
Kamanjab residents are set to benefit from a new basic sports facility currently under construction, as the Kunene village moves to address the shortage of sporting infrastructure and promote youth development.
The Kamanjab Village Council is spearheading the construction of the facility as part of efforts to expand sporting opportunities and create a safe space for community activities.
The official site handover for the Kamanjab Basic Sports Facility took place on 20 July and was attended by representatives from the Kunene Regional Governor’s Office, Kamanjab Village Council, the Kamanjab Constituency Office, community members and other stakeholders.
During the event, residents were urged to take ownership of the facility by protecting it from vandalism and ensuring its sustainability.
Community participation in the construction process will also be encouraged to create a sense of pride and responsibility among residents.
Kamanjab, which means “place of big stones” in Otjiherero, is an important travel gateway, local supply hub and cultural stopover in Kunene Region.
The village has a population of more than 3 000 people, with football being the most popular sport, followed by netball and athletics, mainly through schools.
Cricket has also gained ground in the village through Cricket Namibia’s youth development programme, formerly known as FNB Kwata Cricket and now called the Ashburton Kwata programme.
The facility is expected to provide a modern space for sporting activities, youth development and community events, contributing to social and economic development in Kamanjab.
Construction is expected to be completed by July 2027.
Speaking to Confidente, Kamanjab Village Council chief executive officer Serianne Mukuta said the facility will cater for football, basketball, netball and athletics.
“The sports facility will comprise of football, combined basketball and netball court, and a run-off zone. The Office of the President and the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, through the Kunene governor’s office, are supporting the project. Kamanjab Village Council will be the custodian,” said Mukuta.
She added that the football pitch will have natural grass and the facility will be located about 500 metres east along the gravel road within Kamanjab’s boundaries.
Mukuta could not disclose the total cost of the project but confirmed that funding is being provided through government institutions.
