Youth to benefit as Walvis Bay hosts 18th SAIMSA Games
• BY ADOLF KAURE
Walvis Bay will host the eighteenth edition of the Southern African Inter Municipal Sports Association (SAIMSA) Games from 22 to 26 September.
Speaking at the launch of this year’s games, the Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni emphasised the importance of employers valuing their employees by unveiling platforms of this nature which not only promote economic development, productivity, and healthy lifestyles but also act as catalysts for social cohesion.
“On behalf of the custodian Ministry of Urban and Rural Development I call on the residence the community of Walvis Bay and the business community to support this noble initiative to continue, for the benefit of the current and future generations,” said Uutoni.
This year’s theme for the SAIMSA Games is “SADAC Municipal Employees Wellness Enhanced Through Sports and Recreation”.
Also speaking at the launch, the Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth and National Services, Emma Kantema, initiatives like the SAIMSA Games vital for the Namibian youth.
“They offer more than just physical activity; they foster essential life skills, build friendships, and promote teamwork. Through sports, we are shaping the future leaders of our nation.”
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our national youth policy, which focuses on the holistic development of young people,
“By making sports accessible, we invest in the well-being of our youth, promoting healthy lifestyles and constructive activities,” she said. Kantema added that there are several financial spin-offs that Walvis Bay can benefit from as a host of the games.
“The SAIMSA Games also bring significant benefits to the host towns. They enhance sports facilities, create jobs, boost tourism, and stimulate the local economy. This shows how sports can be a powerful tool for community development and economic growth.”
“Through the SAIMSA Games, we are building bridges of unity and cooperation across Southern Africa.”
“Let us continue to champion sports and recreation, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations,” said Kantema.
His Worship the Mayor of Walvis Bay, Trevino Forbes said that apart from the positive economic benefits that the harbour town will get from hosting the SAIMSA Games, participating local authorities will get the chance to build cooperation with each other.
“It is essential to recognize the significant impact these games will have on our town and the entire country of Namibia.”
“Hosting such a prestigious event will stimulate local businesses and boost tourism in our region. It not only showcases the sportive spirit of our community but highlights the importance of unity and cooperation among municipalities in Southern Africa.”
“It provides a platform for cultural exchange, friendship, and healthy competition among municipalities, fostering a sense of togetherness and collaboration,” said Forbes.
The mayor urged all participants to let the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie be their guide throughout the event.
“I urge all participants to make the most out of their time here in Walvis Bay, to not only strive for victory on the field but also to forge lasting friendships and memories that transcend borders and languages,” he said.
The concept for the Southern Africa Inter-Municipal Sports Association was birthed in 2007 at Walvis Bay Namibia, four years after the first games were held in Botswana.
The sole purpose of the existence of the association is to promote municipal sport as a concept in the SADC Regions.