Erastus Haitengela discussed the on going in WIndhoek and Swakopmund

[PODCAST]

The 11th African Union Sports Council Region 5 Youth Games kicked off in Windhoek and Swakopmund from 4 July to 13 July 2025, with over 2,500 athletes and officials from 10 SADC countries participating.

Namibia stepped in at short notice after Mozambique withdrew, giving us less than six months to prepare instead of the usual two years. The Games feature 13 sporting disciplines, including the COSAFA U‑20 football tournaments, and mark the first Region 5 event to include Special‑Olympics athletes.

The government has allocated N$127 million for upgrades and logistical support. To unpack the challenges, readiness and legacy of this event, we spoke with Erastus Haitengela, Executive Director in the Ministry.