The Tsandi Village Council has taken another step in advancing local youth and economic development by hosting the second edition of the Tsandi Village Chairperson’s Cup in the Omusati Region.
The tournament, which kicked off last Friday, brought together teams and players from various regions and towns to strengthen community unity, improve grassroots sports development, and bring recreational opportunities closer to rural societies. The four-day event involved a diverse showcase of athletics, with youth and legends football taking center stage, while netball and volleyball also featured prominently. Key elements of the initiative included blending competitive matches with community health outreach programs to encourage both youth and adults to embrace healthy lifestyles.
The initiative has drawn praise for its multi-faceted impact on the local community. Beyond the playing fields, the tournament aims to promote and develop sport in Tsandi Village, stimulate small business activity, and provide constructive entertainment for the youth.
On the pitch, the young athletes faced formidable opposition, showing immense determination and unity throughout the competition. In the thrilling youth football final, Ayoba Lifestyle FC edged Grootman FC 3-2 on penalties to clinch the championship title, walking away with a trophy, medals, and a cash prize of N$40,000.
The players themselves reflected on the tournament with deep pride, viewing the platform as both an athletic test and a rare opportunity for development. Ayoba Lifestyle FC Captain Romeo Hausiku emphasized how the journey solidified the squad’s perseverance and dedication to their goals.“We have been fighting, trying to get this team to get some silverware, but we sometimes come close but at the end of the day we play. It is a process and now for us to get this win and finally get our hands on silverware, it's amazing. Even the team I know they are happy and excited about the win. We might be here for a little while and then take the trophy back to Outapi,” Hausiku said.
Grootman FC Assistant Manager Matheus Litula echoed these sentiments, noting that despite the narrow loss, the high level of competition significantly boosted his squad's confidence while securing crucial resources for their growth.“We came here to show who we are, we are still an underdog team, we are not playing in any premier league or divisions currently in Namibia, and we are still under development. This is a bonus to us because at least we have something to take back home as starting capital for our project that we have intended to start. It was not easy but they can testify that it was not a walk in the park. We have shown our capabilities and who we are,” Litula remarked.
Meanwhile, Namibia Football Association (NFA) President and tournament patron, Robert Shimooshili, emphasized the importance of accountability and innovative leadership in managing such community initiatives. He reminded stakeholders that sports tournaments serve as critical instruments for broader societal development.“The municipality of Tsandi they come up with a good idea. This is the second edition... This type of initiation is a good innovation to ensure that we contribute also to economic development in sport. We contribute to poverty and education through sport. There was no any violence of any kind and we appreciate that,” Shimooshili expressed.
Shimooshili also highlighted the role played by the media and organizers in ensuring the event's peaceful and successful implementation, stating that collective effort is what drives public engagement and project success.
With the international-standard regional tournament concluding on Sunday afternoon, the Tsandi Village community remains energized. Organizers and local leaders remain committed to using the beautiful game to develop not just skilled athletes, but responsible, resilient youth capable of making a lasting, positive impact on Namibian society as they look forward to next year's edition.