All set for Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup in Keetmanshoop

Football and netball
Over 1 000 participants expected as //Kharas Region prepares to host flagship youth tournament
Staff Reporter
  • 1 Hour Ago

Everything is in place for the 2026 Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup, with the highly anticipated youth development tournament set to take place from 3 to 6 April in Keetmanshoop.

The annual event will see under-20 football and netball teams from all 14 regions of Namibia converge on the //Kharas Region town, with more than 1 000 players, officials and delegates expected to attend.

Preparations have been closely monitored by a joint organising team comprising representatives from the Namibia Football Association (NFA), Netball Namibia, Nedbank Namibia, the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC), and The Namibian.

According to //Kharas Region Football Chairperson Emrico Blaauw, accommodation logistics have been finalised, with teams and officials set to stay at Suiderlig Secondary School, the Youth Hostel, and JA Nel School hostels.

“For those travelling from outside the region to witness the games, accommodation in Keetmanshoop is fully booked. However, there are still options available in surrounding areas, and we encourage visitors to secure bookings as soon as possible,” Blaauw said.

He added that some local homeowners will also open their homes to visitors during the tournament, highlighting the strong community involvement ahead of the event.

Blaauw further noted that between 5 000 and 6 000 spectators are expected to fill the stadiums daily over the four-day competition.

Nedbank Namibia’s Communications and Public Relations Manager, Selma Kaulinge, said preparations are progressing smoothly and emphasised the broader impact of the tournament.

“The Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup is much more than a youth sports tournament – it serves as a significant economic stimulus for the host town and region. Benefits range from infrastructure upgrades to increased local procurement and tourism,” she said.

Kaulinge pointed out that school facilities, including hostels, have been renovated, while local lodges and businesses are already benefiting from increased demand for accommodation, food, beverages and merchandise.

She added that the tournament places Keetmanshoop and the wider //Kharas Region firmly in the spotlight, showcasing its ability to host major national events and potentially attracting future investment.

“The event also unites the community, fostering a sense of pride while giving young athletes a platform to showcase their talent,” Kaulinge said.

She urged residents to come out in numbers to support the tournament and encouraged players to use the opportunity to impress scouts and build lasting connections.

Football fixtures:

Group A: Kavango East, Hardap, Omaheke, Otjozondjupa

Group B: Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Kavango West, //Kharas

Group C: Khomas, Erongo, Oshana

Group D: Zambezi, Kunene, Omusati

Netball fixtures:

Group A: Zambezi, Hardap, Omusati, Ohangwena, Erongo, Kunene, //Kharas

Group B: Oshikoto, Omaheke, Kavango East, Otjozondjupa, Khomas, Oshana, Kavango West