Oshakati: The Oshana Region on Tuesday launched the construction of basic sports facilities across all 11 constituencies, marking the commencement of a region-wide rollout aimed at youth empowerment and addressing social challenges. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony at Eheke settlement, Oshana Governor Hofni Iipinge said the initiative forms part of a national programme to construct basic sports facilities in all 121 constituencies across Namibia’s 14 regions.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Iipinge stated that the eighth administration has repositioned sport from the periphery to the centre of national development. “Sport is not merely recreation. It is a strategic instrument for youth empowerment, social cohesion, crime prevention, health promotion, economic participation and nation-building,” he said. He added that the initiative to construct facilities in all 121 constituencies is intended to ensure equitable access, structured youth engagement, and the creation of safe community spaces.
The Os
hana Governor emphasized that the initiative ensures equal opportunity across urban and rural constituencies, structured engagement for young people, and safe and inclusive community spaces. He further noted that the Swapo Party manifesto recognizes sport as a vehicle for social transformation and economic inclusion, while the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6) positions youth development, human capital enhancement, and community infrastructure at the centre of national progress. “This project directly advances those national objectives,” he said.
Ondangwa Rural Constituency Councillor Abraham Kaushiweni, speaking at the same event, said the facilities are expected to provide safe recreational spaces while promoting healthy lifestyles, social cohesion, and talent development. “These facilities will provide safe recreational spaces, promote healthy lifestyles, strengthen social cohesion and create opportunities for talent development,” Kaushiweni said.
The rollout forms part of a structured multi-year im
plementation plan spanning the 2025/2026 to 2029/2030 financial years.