OSHAKATI — Fillemon Kalutenda Angula, widely known by his nickname ‘Kaskas’, a celebrated figure in Namibian football, has passed away, leaving a legacy of humility and skill that resonated deeply within the football community. Angula, who would have turned 50 later this month, died on August 5, 2024.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Chairperson of Okahandja United and Angula’s former teammate, Angula’s death was unexpected and profoundly felt across the football community. “During our playing days, it was difficult for players outside Windhoek to make it into the national team, but Kaskas made his debut a year after I did, coming from Oshakati City, a team he significantly uplifted,” Hindjou stated in an interview with Nampa. He remembered Angula for his exceptional talent, particularly his ball-control skills, and his quiet, problem-free demeanor.
Angula’s role extended beyond the pitch; he often served as a translator for the team during trips to West or Central Africa due to his proficiency in French. This often put him humorously at odds with the national team’s technical director, Peter Uberjahn, who liked to be recognized as the team’s sole French speaker.
The sentiment of loss is compounded by a sense of regret that Angula’s contributions were not sufficiently celebrated during his lifetime. “I don’t believe in giving someone their flowers when they are gone,” Hindjou expressed, advocating for more recognition of sports figures while they are still alive. He suggested that Angula’s skills would have been invaluable in a coaching or developmental role, particularly for young footballers.
Former Brave Warriors coach Ricardo Mannetti and teammate Ronny Kanalelo also shared their grief. Mannetti, who learned of Angula’s passing through social media, highlighted Angula’s exceptional abilities in heading, a skill not widely mastered in Namibian football. “Kaskas was a simple human being who never bothered anyone. Namibia has lost a good human being,” he lamented.
Kanalelo sent condolences to Angula’s family, remembering him as a humble man and a universal friend whose approachability and readiness to listen were unparalleled. “No one could get angry with him as he was a friend to everyone, and he took advice from anyone, even a child,” Kanalelo recalled.
As the football community and the nation mourn, the lasting impact of ‘Kaskas’ Angula’s gentle spirit and football prowess continues to resonate.