Kunene ramps up Newspaper Cup preparations

With just over three weeks to go before this year’s Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup kicks off, host region Kunene says preparations are in the final stages.

The football and netball competition runs from 18 to 21 April at Outjo, bringing together the best under-20 talent from across Namibia while also reinforcing critical wildlife conservation efforts.

Speaking after the penultimate site inspection of the athletes’ accommodation and playing facilities on Tuesday, Kunene governor Marius Sheya, who doubles as the local organising committee’s head, said the region is 90% ready to host the prestigious tournament.

“We have done quite a lot in terms of hostel accommodation. All three hostels are in an advanced stage, and by next week, we should have the completion of most of these facilities,” Sheya said.

“Equally, the sport facilities are almost ready, with about 90% of the work completed. We believe that within the next two weeks, everything will be fully operational.”

The governor also expressed satisfaction with the inspection visit conducted by officials from The Namibian, the Namibia Football Association and Netball Namibia. Their visit follows an initial assessment last month when a number of improvements were recommended to ensure the smooth running of the competition.

“I am satisfied that we have addressed almost all the shortcomings that were highlighted in the initial report,” Sheya noted.

“As a region, we are fully prepared to welcome Namibians from all walks of life, especially the participating teams.”

He also revealed that beyond football, this year’s edition of the Nedbank Newspaper Cup will also serve as a platform to raise awareness against the poaching of elephants, lions and rhinos.

Sheya said the event will include an official opening ceremony, followed by a free music concert aimed at spreading a strong anti-poaching message.

“We, together with The Namibian and Nedbank, have dedicated this year’s edition to the protection of wildlife,” Sheya stated.

“This is why we are planning a concert for young people to advocate against poaching. We want to send a clear message that the future generation of this country is against poaching, and we say no to it.”