PARIS-The Namibian Deaf Sports Federation (NDSF) achieved full membership status with the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) during the 51st ICSD Congress in Paris:he Namibian Deaf Sports Federation (NDSF) achieved full membership status with the International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) during the 51st ICSD Congress in Paris, France. This milestone event, which also marked the centennial celebration of the Deaflympics, spanned from October 3 to 6, 2024, and included vital discussions on the future of deaf sports.
According to Namibia Press Agency, NDSF President Abner Sheya expressed immense pride in the unity and commitment of various member associations to the development of deaf sports. He highlighted the significance of NDSF’s full membership, which was established in 2017, noting that it paves the way for Namibian athletes to participate in upcoming global events like the 27th Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo 2025 and the 2027 Winter Deaf Festivals. “This is a significant mile
stone for our organization, and it opens many doors for our athletes to compete on an international stage and promote Deaf culture through sports,” Sheya stated.
Sheya acknowledged the challenges faced in the journey to the congress, including financial constraints that required him to personally fund his travel. He expressed gratitude towards the Namibian Ministry of Sports, Youth and National Service, and particularly Jo-Ann Manuel, the Director of Sport, for their support and guidance. The NDSF President also thanked the NamPower Foundation for its critical support since the federation’s early days, contributing to their participation in the Southern African Development Community Deaf Games and other national events.
With the official membership, NDSF plans to actively participate in a variety of sports events, including athletics, volleyball, netball, and football. Sheya emphasized their readiness for the Tokyo 2025 Deaflympics, contingent on qualifying at this year’s second Deaf Football Championship i
n Morocco. He reflected on the federation’s journey, underscoring the resilience and achievements of deaf athletes. “Deaf sports have shown that we can achieve anything, just like our hearing counterparts. This victory is not just ours; it’s for the entire Deaf community. ‘Nothing About Us Without Us’,” he affirmed.