The 15th edition of the Namibia Local Authorities Sports and Recreation Association (NALASRA) Games officially kicked off at Omulunga Sports Stadium in Grootfontein on Monday.
The games are being held under the theme: "Promoting unity and team spirit through sports, recreation and wellness."
The games, which return to Grootfontein after 18 years, bring together more than 1,200 municipal workers, athletes and officials from 43 local authorities across Namibia.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony, NALASRA president Daniel Mouton highlighted the importance of wellness, teamwork and cooperation among local authorities, saying the games serve as a platform to strengthen relationships beyond the workplace.
“For one week, we are not 43 different local authorities, we are one NALASRA family. Over the next 5 days, we will compete in Netball, volleyball, tug of war, soccer, pool, touch, marathon and fun walk. Win with humility, lose with grace, play hard but play fair.”
Meanwhile, Urban and Rural Development Minister James Sankwasa said the games are more than just sporting competition, adding that they also promote employee wellness and unity among municipalities and town councils across the country.
“As employees of local authorities, regard yourself as the most valuable asset that each local authority has because around you, every aspect of local authority evolves, the management of money, the rendering of service,s everything revolves around you, so you are the paramount asset that surrounds service delivery. Pride comes from local authority leaders.”
Sankwasa also noted that the games are expected to contribute positively to Grootfontein's local economy through accommodation, transport, catering and other business activities generated by the influx of visitors.
Grootfontein Mayor Moritz Gaingob thanked previous councillors for successfully spearheading the hosting of the NALASRA Games in Grootfontein.
“We are grateful that NALASRA has chosen Grootfontein as this year's host. Your visit supports our local businesses, accommodation establishments, and restaurants in the broader community. We trust that you will experience the warmth that Grootfontein is known for.”
The last NALASRA Games in Katima Mulilo ended with Windhoek as the overall champions.