Community members and unemployed youth in Walvis Bay are utilizing sport as a powerful tool to promote unity, healthy living, and to keep young people away from crime through weekly social wellness games and tournaments.
The initiative, which brings together residents from various backgrounds, serves as a critical platform for community bonding and youth engagement. Organiser Tobias Monehango explained that the programme was established to unite communities and create opportunities for young people, emphasizing that sport remains a strong mechanism to bring people together regardless of tribe, race, or social background.
Monehango also called on municipalities and sports authorities to invest in more sporting facilities, noting that increased access to sport can significantly help reduce crime and other social challenges affecting the youth. "I attend local sports courts to help promote and support participants, because the foundation level on the ground is where people face the most difficulties. We use what little resources we have to keep youth off the streets and away from criminal activities," Monehango stressed.
The games have also garnered strong support from veteran sports figures. Leader of the Walvis Bay Oldies football team, Tommy Ikela, highlighted how the initiative helps former footballers maintain activity while mentoring the next generation. "Instead of spending time at drinking places, former and retired professional footballers use these sessions to pass down their knowledge and experience to younger players at the grassroots level. It creates a healthy atmosphere for the community," Ikela said.
On and off the field, the weekly gatherings have provided consistent, positive engagement for local residents. Seawork Football Club coach, Donald De Klerk, noted that the matches offer excellent entertainment while keeping young men constructive over the weekends. This sentiment was echoed by Namport employee and sports organiser, Packs Pendukeni Katukula, who observed the positive generational impact of the games. "These social games are highly beneficial because they allow young children to watch their fathers, parents, and guardians stay actively involved in sports," Katukula remarked.
Beyond athletic and social benefits, the social wellness games also create vital economic and team-building opportunities for local residents and community groups.
Kafute Nekongo explained that the large gatherings provide a unique chance for people to sell products and raise funds. "The events bring economic value to the community by allowing residents to sell products and earn an income. Additionally, it serves as an excellent team-building opportunity for my choir to bond," Nekongo shared.
With the weekly tournaments drawing consistent participation, organizers express hope that the initiative will continue to grow and inspire more youth in Walvis Bay to participate in sport and positive community activities.