In a significant stride towards grassroots football development, FIFA has generously donated 35 soccer balls and approximately 102 T-shirts per region, reaching out to Khomas, Kharas, and Otjozondjupa through the Namibia Football Association [NFA].
These donations come as part of FIFA’s commitment to supporting the growth of women’s football, particularly through the grassroots initiative.
Five schools in the Khomas region, M.H Greef, Berthold Himumuine, Alof Primary, and ST. Barnabas in Katutura, were recognized for their active participation in the FIFA Grassroots Festival last year. Each of these schools has now received three soccer balls and T-shirts, setting the stage for an enriched sporting experience for young girls below the age of 11 years.
Saara Shigwana, the NFA Grassroots and Youth Coordinator, expressed gratitude for FIFA’s unwavering commitment to women’s football.
“The aim of these festivals is to encourage mass participation among young girls and women within the community while installing life skills and creating holistic beings across the county.”
Emphasizing the transformative impact of women’s football in Namibia, Shigwana highlighted the positive influence on young children, both girls and boys. She praised FIFA for prioritizing women’s football and acknowledged their pivotal role in supporting and developing initiatives that boost participation.
The FIFA Grassroots Festival, conducted under the Women’s Football Campaign, has already made waves in Khomas, Kharas, and Otjozondjupa regions, with plans to extend its reach to all region later this year. The festival aligns with FIFA’s broader mission to not only promote football at the grassroots level but also foster life skills and holistic development among the youth.
On behalf of the NFA, Shigwana said ”The NFA extends heartfelt appreciation to FIFA for their support, which goes beyond just equipment donation but contributes to building a stronger foundation for football growth and development in Namibia.”