As the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) continues its anniversary celebrations, we look at how broadcasting and sports journalism have evolved over the years, marking 35 years of transformation, innovation, and storytelling that have shaped how audiences experience sport in Namibia.

Thirty-five years represent decades of change in broadcasting, moving from tape cameras to digital systems, from mechanical filming and linear editing to non-linear editing, and from traditional television screens to mobile platforms and high-definition broadcasts. The evolution of television remains one of the defining changes in broadcasting.

For journalists who helped build the industry, the journey began in an era of analogue equipment and has progressed to a digital environment where news is available in real time across multiple platforms.

Former sports producer Rosa Hamukwaya reflected on how the digital era has reshaped sports broadcasting and content creation.“In sports broadcasting, we are now in the digital space. The digital space has made it easy to create content. You can edit from your cell phone and send footage captured on mobile devices. It has changed how sports is covered. Unlike the past, where you carried heavy equipment and travelled far, today you can get contributions from anywhere,” Hamukwaya said.

Former sport producer Deon Cloete says the shift also changed audience reach and competition within the broadcasting landscape, highlighting NBC's unique role as a public broadcaster.“In those times, we were never able to compete against DSTV or other mechanisms because our vision was different. We are not profit-based. But we still reach everyone in this country, and NBC can reach everyone in this country. That was a strong selling point. It was tough at first, but once people saw the figures and realized NBC is ours, they began to understand its value,” Cloete said.

From tape reels to digital platforms, NBC's 35-year journey reflects a shift in how sports stories are told and consumed. As NBC marks this milestone, one thing remains unchanged: its commitment to bringing sport closer to the people.