WINDHOEK, Dec. 31 (Xinhua) -- A boom in festive football tournaments is revitalizing rural Namibia, driven by efforts to boost youth participation in sport and break down social barriers within communities.
On the sandy sports field in Shaamwele Village in northern Namibia, two teams of youngsters competed for a spot in the next round.
Among them was 15-year-old David Shilongo, who spent the entire year in the village but never earned an opportunity to play competitively.
"This is a chance to relive my dream and revive my striker skills, something I haven't done in a long time," Shilongo told Xinhua on Wednesday.
The next match featured seasoned players and elders who demonstrated the rules of the game to the youngsters. "But also, to promote fitness," said Neli Martin, a 35-year-old player.
The organization of the village tournament involves unique dynamics.
"It is a collaboration between villagers and those who live in urban areas but have roots in the countryside," said Shilumbu Ithete, lead organizer of the Shaamwele Tournament.
The village uses its open spaces to host the sporting event, while for logistics, both town and village residents contribute to costs such as balls, water, and first-aid kits.
The village tournaments, primarily involving students, community members, and workers on holiday, emphasized the joy of community participation over awards or professional accolades.
In Oniimwandi Village, the football tournament brought together players from various villages and teams.
"The aim is to provide a platform for skills exchange among young people at different levels of experience," said Sem Mashuna, who has organized the Oniimwandi Annual Tournament for over five years.
Sponsors also offered rewards to the winning teams. "This is mainly to boost grassroots sports and uplift the teams," he said.
The tournaments also fused sports with business to spark entrepreneurial spirit. The sports event in Ontinda Village, Okaku Constituency, home to about 300 households, is no exception.
For Selma Indongo, selling at the tournament, held for the first time after a hiatus due to the COVID-19 outbreak, was an opportunity to generate income and grow her catering business.
"Selling provides an opportunity not only to earn but also to network and improve customer service with each experience," she said.
According to Indongo, some of the funds generated are reinvested, while the rest cover household expenses.
Meanwhile, organizers are also exploring ways to incorporate other popular sports such as volleyball and dance.
"Festive season sports tournaments are not new," said local sports radio host Damian Shuumbwa.
Every year, demand grows, and enthusiasm shows no sign of slowing as more villages embrace the festive season to maximize sports. ■