On 12 November 2025, the African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 convened a key Stakeholders in Sports meeting in Windhoek, drawing together Namibia’s top sports leaders and administrators across multiple disciplines. The gathering aimed to strengthen partnerships, enhance regional collaboration, and align Namibia’s sports development efforts with the broader objectives of Region 5.
Mr. Stanley Mutoya, CEO of AUSC Region 5, outlined the region’s history, policy priorities, and mandate. He emphasized sports diversification, digital innovation, and the empowerment of youth and women as crucial pillars for inclusive growth. He urged stakeholders to foster collaboration and innovation to ensure sports serve as a catalyst for development, unity, and positive social change within Southern Africa.
In response to questions on deepening Namibia’s engagement with Region 5, Mutoya called for active participation in regional programs focusing on youth development, leadership training, and digital skill-building. He also encouraged attendees to serve as ambassadors, upholding the values of excellence, integrity, and inclusivity in their communities.
Ms. Jo-Ann N. Manuel, Director of Sport at Namibia’s Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC), emphasized peace as the foundation for sporting success. “Peace in our region is the key enabler for flourishing sports,” she noted. Manuel also stressed the importance of welcoming refugees, highlighting inclusion and compassion as vital to forging a stronger, united Region 5.
Namibia received praise for its exemplary hosting of the Region 5 Youth Games in July 2025. The event gathered over 2,000 athletes from 10 African nations, showcasing Namibia’s growing leadership and organizational strength in regional sports development.
