WINDHOEK – The Permanent Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and National Service, Emma Kantema-Gaomas, has called on the Brave Warriors to be disciplined at the upcoming 2018 African Nations Championship (Chan) in Morocco.
Speaking during the officially send off ceremony in Windhoek, Kantema-Gaomas said the senior men’s national football team had made the nation proud by qualifying for the Chan tournament for the first time, under difficult circumstances.
The Brave Warriors are scheduled to depart on Wednesday to Tunis, Tunisia where they will camp for two weeks before going to Morocco for the tournament.
“As a ministry tasked with promoting sport, this is a historic event. We do share the success your tireless efforts that you put in. We are looking forward to supporting you in Morocco,” she said.
She urged the players to showcase their talent to the whole world, saying her ministry will continue supporting the national teams by providing a conducive environment for sports.
Kantema-Gaomas stated that Government was committed to promoting sports as a big sector that contributes to national development and that they are making strides in that regard.
“Sport can eradicate poverty as it has the potential to create employment and contribute to economic development,” she added.
This, she said, is evidenced by the incorporation of sports in the NDP 5 that advocates for the professionalisation of sports in Namibia.
The PS added that the Ministry has embarked upon a review of its legislation framework, which is a work in progress.
She concluded by reminding the players that they are representing Namibia.
“Remember Namibia first. In our eyes you are already winners so go out there and make us proud. I would like to request you to maintain a positive attitude throughout and uphold discipline by observing the rules that govern the games,” she said.
Brave Warriors coach Ricardo Mannetti said the team was ready for the tournament as preparations had gone well.
He also thanked the government for availing funds which made it possible for them to hold a training camp in Tunisia for two weeks before taking part in the Chan tournament.
The tournament will take place between 12 January and 4 February 2017. – Nampa-AFP
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