A Grade 8 learner from Mangetti Dune Combined School in the Tsumkwe Constituency has become the first learner from the constituency to be selected to represent Namibia at the Namibia Schools Sport Union (NSSU) International Athletics Competition, which will take place in Mozambique later this year.

Seventeen-year-old Muyeu Hamutenya secured his place on the national team after impressing selectors in the 3,000-metre race.

Hamutenya Muyeu said, “I feel so good because I have been waiting for this opportunity. I am proud of myself for going to represent Namibia."

Hamutenya further said that his goal is to win the race.

He also encouraged other learners to train hard so that, in the future, more athletes from the Tsumkwe Constituency can represent Namibia at international competitions.

His teacher and coach said that although he is not a professional athletics coach, he has continued to encourage and train the learner not to give up.

He said the athlete faces challenges because of the community he comes from and appealed to companies, organizations and well-wishers to assist with training equipment to help him prepare for the competition.

 Joseph Nghishiti further noted, “We need a conducive environment where the boy can train, and that is one of our challenges. I am not an expert, but I am doing my best to ensure that he does not give up and continues pursuing his dream."

NBC Sport also spoke to Muyeu's sister, with whom he lives.

She says the family is unemployed and faces financial challenges. Despite this, they are proud of Muyeu's achievement and believe he will represent both Namibia and the Tsumkwe Constituency well.

She appealed to Good Samaritans to support her brother as he prepares for the international competition.

 Iviora Muyeu said, “I am very happy for him, and I pray to God that he performs the same way he did in Windhoek. My message to him is that he must not give up. Maybe one day he will become someone who will benefit our family."

 Hamutenya's selection marks the first time a learner from Mangetti Dune Combined School and the Tsumkwe Constituency will represent Namibia at this level of school athletics competition.