N$10m sports centre project kicks off in Rehoboth
A N$10.1 million sports infrastructure project in Rehoboth East has moved into the construction phase, with the development expected to create local employment opportunities and provide young people with improved access to sports and recreational facilities. The project officially commenced on 6 November following a site handover ceremony, marking the start of a four-month construction period. It is expected to be completed by 8 March 2027.
Valued at N$10 167 931.26, the Rehoboth Sports Centre project forms part of a national programme aimed at expanding access to sports and recreational infrastructure across Namibia’s 14 regions.
The first phase of construction will include perimeter fencing, a guardhouse, a sports field with a running track, a netball court, a mini pavilion and public ablution facilities, as well as the necessary electrical and mechanical installations. A second phase is planned to include a sports pavilion with a seating capacity of between 300 and 400 people. The project is also expected to stimulate the local economy through employment opportunities, with semi-skilled workers from Rehoboth East to be prioritised through engagement between the contractor, constituency leadership and the town council.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rehoboth Town Council Management Committee chairperson Gaob Kawango said the development was for the people and by the people, particularly given that Rehoboth Urban East is the largest constituency by population south of Windhoek. Kawango urged the project team to complete the work within the agreed timeframe, emphasising that development must translate into visible benefits for residents. He said the facility would serve as more than a sports venue, providing a platform for major community and regional events while potentially positioning Rehoboth as a sports tourism destination. Regional governor Riaan McNab said development should respond to the needs and realities of communities, stressing the importance of turning government commitments into tangible results.
The contractor, Romy van Wyk of Hebron Contractors, said he was proud to have been awarded the opportunity to undertake construction work in his hometown and home region. He described the project as a historic milestone for his company, noting that it was the first project awarded to the company in Rehoboth and the Hardap Region. Van Wyk, who was born and raised in the region, said he was committed to contributing to the development of his community and delivering quality work.
Meanwhile, Rehoboth Urban East constituency regional chairperson and deputy minister of safety and security Eduard Wambo commended McNab for his commitment to driving development and delivering tangible results.
Wambo said the country's limited resources must be used responsibly, “Projects must not stall halfway through implementation. Timely completion, timely payments and commitment to complete successfully is essential for communities to experience and appreciate development,” he said.
He added that leadership should be measured by implementation and results rather than promises, commending regional and local leaders for ensuring that residents could experience development in their communities.
The project has a 12-month defects liability period, which will run until 7 March 2028.
