Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Youth Games were officially launched in Windhoek on Friday by Dino Ballotti, Namibia’s recently appointed Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture.
The 2024 edition of the Games, originally scheduled to be hosted by Mozambique last year, will be held in Windhoek from July 4 to 13 under the inspirational theme “Own Your Moment”.
Speaking at the official launch, Ballotti emphasised that the Region 5 Games were not merely a sporting event but also represented a celebration of shared regional aspirations, the boundless potential of the youth and the unity that binds the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“Here in Namibia, we understand the transformative power of sport. We have witnessed firsthand how it can elevate individuals, unite communities and inspire a nation,” he said.
“The Region 5 Games stand as a beacon of this potential, a crucible where raw talent is discovered, nurtured and forged into champions. For many of our young athletes, this platform will be the launchpad for their dreams.”
Ballotti affirmed the Namibian government’s strategic prioritisation of sport. He identified it as the second-highest national development priority.
“This commitment is not just rhetoric; it is evident in the substantial two-thirds increase in our national sports budget. We recognise that investing in sport is investing in our future, our health, our youth and the potential for sport to contribute meaningfully to our GDP (gross domestic product),” he said.
He praised the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for its close collaboration with the Regional Organising Committee (ROC) to ensure all infrastructure and logistics would be ready by July.
The deputy minister highlighted a major milestone for this year’s games: the inclusion of Special Olympics athletes, marking a powerful commitment to inclusivity.
“This reflects our deeply held Namibian value, echoing the words of our late president, that ‘no one should be left behind’. Sport is for everyone, and we are immensely proud to welcome these exceptional athletes,” he said.
“Their participation enriches the games and sends a strong message of unity and acceptance across the region.”
Ballotti urged the region to use the games as a catalyst for elevating sport and inspiring mutual respect, healthy competition and unwavering support for the youth.
“These games are more than a competition, they are an investment in our future, a celebration of unity, diversity and our shared passion for sport.”
Also speaking at the launch, LOC chairperson Ndeulipula Hamutumwa described the journey towards hosting the games as both challenging and enriching.
“We embraced the call to host these prestigious games at short notice, a challenge met with patriotism and responsibility,” he said.
“While the games will take place in July, today marks a pivotal moment, the official unveiling of our commitment and vision. We are thrilled to announce the expected participation of 2 552 athletes and officials, making this the largest Region 5 Youth Games ever hosted.”
Hamutumwa emphasised that the games symbolised a united Africa and provided a stage for young athletes to shine, gain recognition and potentially launch professional sporting careers across borders.
“Namibia stands ready, with enthusiasm and pride, to deliver an exceptional games experience. This will be a source of national pride and a radiant platform for our youth.”
Stanley Mutoya, chief executive and chairperson of the ROC of AUSC, echoed the sentiment, adding that the youth games represented a celebration of hope, unity and legacy.
“This is more than a sporting event, it is a threshold of movement, of legacy and a message that resonates across the region,” Mutoya said.
