Namport seven-a-side bigger and better
A total of 42 football teams and nine netball teams are set to compete in the second edition of the Namport seven-a-side tournament in Walvis Bay today.
The second edition of the event has recorded increased participation and sponsorship support. Organisers have described the initiative as more than a sporting event and positioned it as a platform for stakeholder engagement, wellness and business collaboration.
Speaking during the official draw for the 2026 tournament, Namport commercial executive Elia Mwenyo said the event had grown significantly since its launch and reflected increasing support from the Walvis Bay business community.
According to Mwenyo, participation has increased from 32 teams in the inaugural tournament to 42 teams this year.
"This growth is not just a number. It is a reflection of the increasing confidence, interest and support of the Walvis Bay business community and our stakeholders," he said.
Broader engagement
Mwenyo said the tournament had evolved into a broader engagement platform for stakeholders within the country’s logistics and maritime sectors.
"As a port authority, we recognise that wellness is no longer simply a personal matter. It is a business imperative. Healthy and connected people contribute to productive organisations, stronger teams and more resilient communities," said Mwenyo.
A key development for this year’s tournament is the inclusion of netball as an official sporting code for the first time.
Mwenyo said the decision was aimed at expanding participation and creating a more inclusive environment across different sporting and corporate communities.
"This addition is a deliberate step towards greater inclusivity. It opens the door to broader participation across different sporting communities and corporate stakeholders," he said.
Additional sponsors
The tournament has also attracted additional sponsorship support.
Mwenyo acknowledged logistics company Pindulo Logistics, the event’s first sponsor, for its early support. He also welcomed Terminal Investment Namibia (TIN) as a new sponsor for this year’s edition.
He further recognised technical partner Paulus Shipanga, a former Brave Warriors player, for his contribution to the tournament and sports development in Walvis Bay.
Event safety partner Safework OHS Group also joined the tournament for the first time.
According to Mwenyo, the initiative creates opportunities beyond sport by strengthening business relationships and opening avenues for local businesses and vendors.
"It creates networking opportunities between companies and the professionals who drive them. It strengthens brand association among stakeholders and creates economic opportunities for local businesses," he said.
Prize money
He urged participating teams to compete fairly and demonstrate sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
In the football tournament, teams are competing for a grand prize of N$15 000, with second prize set at N$10 000 and third prize at N$7 000.
In the netball tournament, the grand prize is N$10 000, the second prize is N$7 000, and the third prize is N$4 000.
The defending champions of the second edition of the tournament are Marathon Dealers.
