MTC increases netball players’ allowances by 41%
Mobile Telecommunications Company (MTC) has increased monthly allowances for MTC Netball Premier League players from N$ 1200 to N$ 1700 and made its 24-hour gym at its headquarters in Olympia available to netball players as part of efforts to professionalise the sport in Namibia.
The announcement was made at the Windhoek Palm Hotel on Friday, with MTC committing an additional N$450 000 towards player allowances for the upcoming season.
“The new Premier League starts with us having made a decision to increase the netball sponsorship by N$450 000, which will go straight to allowances,” said MTC’s Chief Brand, Marketing, Communications and Sustainability Officer, Tim Ekandjo.
The increase amounts to an additional N$500 per player per month, representing a 41.7% rise. The improved financial support could help players cover expenses such as transport, meals and other costs associated with training and competing, while access to the gym provides an additional resource for physical conditioning and performance.
Reward for the Jewels
In a separate gesture, MTC handed over N$800 000 to the Debmarine Desert Jewels to recognise their historic qualification for the Netball World Cup 2027 in Sydney, Australia.
Namibia secured its place at the tournament after progressing through the African qualifiers in Nairobi, Kenya, ending a 32-year absence from the global showpiece.
Each Desert Jewel and technical team member received N$20 000, along with a gift package valued at N$20 000. The package included a N$5 000 airtime voucher, a Samsung smart device and other items.
“This is something you give back to your parents and those who supported you through this journey,” Ekandjo told the team.
He challenged the Desert Jewels to approach the World Cup with the confidence and ambition to compete at the highest level, not just participate. He also thanked Debmarine for its continued support of the national team.
With the Netball World Cup 2027 scheduled for August 25 to September 5 in Sydney, Australia, the boosted support comes at a crucial time as the Desert Jewels prepare to take the international stage.
