NNOC sets target of 15 Namibian athletes for next Olympics

The Namibia National Olympic Committee (NNOC) is targeting at least 15 Namibian athletes for the next Olympic Games as it begins a new long-term development plan. The committee wants the athletes to qualify and represent the country, preferably securing their places well before the Games.

NNOC chief executive officer Anri Parker said several national federations have been identified because they contain athletes with the potential to reach Olympic level. The committee plans to direct significant support and investment towards those federations so promising competitors can progress through the required stages of development.

The programme is expected to take time, with the NNOC describing it as a medium- to long-term project. Its current funding comes through Olympic Solidarity and the International Olympic Committee, while a planned NNOC Foundation is intended to attract national and international sponsors and ease the financial pressure on the government.

Talent identification will also be expanded beyond Namibia’s established sporting centres. The NNOC plans to work with the Namibia Sports Commission and the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture to find young athletes in remote areas and introduce them to sport and Olympic values.

The committee’s work extends beyond qualification and competition. Its Olympic 365 programme supports athletes with education, mental health and career development, while Olympic Solidarity funding has helped some former athletes continue their studies. Helalia Johannes is due to return to Germany to complete her degree, and Romeo Goliath is expected to qualify as an attorney by the end of the year.

The NNOC also launched the Athlete Mind programme in January. It is designed to give athletes support before and after major competitions, including tools to handle difficult situations. Together with the wider development plan, the initiative forms part of the committee’s effort to prepare athletes for Olympic competition and life beyond sport.