By Michael Uugwanga
Archery in Namibia continues to grow despite limited resources, following the successful hosting of the Namibian Field Archery Championships in both field and target disciplines from 16 May to 17 May 2026 at Yellowstone Trails in Windhoek.
The championships attracted a total of 15 archers across different divisions and age groups, with participants delivering strong performances over a challenging weekend.
Field archery differs significantly from target archery. Instead of shooting on a flat range at fixed distances, archers move through natural terrain and shoot at targets placed at varying distances, angles and elevations. The discipline places strong emphasis on judging distance, adjusting for terrain and remaining adaptable, making it both exciting and demanding.
President of the Archery Association of Namibia (ANN), Jannie Meusewen, who is also the country’s leading archer, said the competition demonstrated the steady growth of the sport in Namibia.
“The championships were a great success and showed just how much field archery is growing in the country. Beyond the scores, the event highlighted what makes field archery in Namibia special — a competitive but welcoming environment where experienced archers and newcomers shoot side by side. This mix continues to play an important role in growing the sport locally,” said Meusewen.
“With strong results, new records and steady participation, the 2026 Field Archery Nationals confirmed that the sport is moving in a very positive direction.”
He added that one of the key reasons for the sport’s continued growth is the consistency of monthly competitions, despite the financial challenges facing the association.
There are several local and international competitions lined up in the coming months.
Namibian archers are expected to have a busy international calendar, starting with the 15th African Archery Championship 2026 in Oran, Algeria, from 21 July to 27 July 2026. This will be followed by the IFAA World Field Championship 2026 in Yankton, USA, from 25 July to 1 August 2026, and the 2026 Fazza Para Archery World Ranking Championship in Dubai from 7 November to 12 November 2026.
“The challenges facing the association include limited access to facilities outside major hubs, equipment availability, coaching and development capacity, as well as awareness of archery as a sport.
However, we have a growth plan in place to expand regional clubs and outreach programmes, increase youth development initiatives, improve access to equipment and coaching, and promote both field and target archery nationally,” said Meusewen.
He added that field archery has seen increased participation at club level, regular monthly competitions and growing national championships, while target archery has experienced increased international participation, stronger performances at regional championships and the development of competitive national teams.
