The Grassroots of Greatness: Why Sports Turf Maintenance Must Be a National Priority

Am just saying sports facilities are the lifeblood of athletic development, yet in our country, the state of sports turf maintenance remains our Achilles heel. Without proper fields, we cannot expect to host international competitions, nurture elite athletes, or even provide safe playing surfaces for our youth. 
Am saying that the solution lies not just in building stadiums but in investing in the people who maintain them. Until we prioritize training, certification, and professional recognition for groundskeepers, we will continue to lag behind nations that treat turf management as a science rather than an afterthought.
Am just saying, Cricket Namibia has sets a compelling example. Their investment in field upkeep, staff training, and long-term maintenance strategies has paid dividends in the quality of their facilities. 
Am saying, we must adopt a similar mindset—viewing turf management not as an expense but as an investment in both infrastructure and employment. Many of our current groundskeepers possess invaluable hands-on experience, yet their skills often go unrecognized. 
All am asking is that through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programs, we can certify these veterans, allowing them to pass on their expertise to a new generation while elevating their profession. A groundskeeper should be regarded—and compensated—as a skilled artisan, not just a laborer.
Am just saying, beyond training, we face another critical challenge: water scarcity. In many regions, maintaining natural grass fields is a struggle due to limited resources. This calls for innovative solutions—drought-resistant turf varieties, efficient irrigation systems, and community education. 
Am just saying, facility owners, players, and local communities must understand that a well-kept field isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for player safety and performance. Schools, regional authorities, and sports ministries must collaborate to implement sustainable maintenance practices.
Am saying the recent Region 5 Games underscored our deficiencies. If we are serious about sports development, turf maintenance must be embedded in our national agenda. 
As we draft the business plans of the NDP6, let us establish dedicated programs for sports turf management, complete with funding and clear objectives. By doing so, we won’t just improve facilities—we’ll create jobs, empower communities, and lay the foundation for a future where our fields match our ambitions. The path to sporting excellence begins at ground level. It’s time we give it the attention it deserves.
Mathew T Haikali is a sports consultant, this article is written in his private capacity.