Windhoek, April 5 — President-Elect of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Dr. Kirsty Coventry today paid a courtesy visit on President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at state house in Windhoek. Dr. Coventry lauded Namibia’s commitment to sport and shared her pride in becoming the first African and first woman to hold the position of IOC President. She expressed her honor at meeting President Nandi-Ndaitwah as the first Head of State she is meeting in her new role, saying, “It sends an incredibly strong message around the world that as women, we are here and ready to lead. And as Africa, we are here and ready to lead. Thank you for breaking down barriers for all of us women to follow in your footsteps.”
Her Excellency Cde. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah President of the Republic of Namibia, received a courtesy call from Dr. Kirsty Coventry, the President-elect of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
During the meeting, President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed Namibia’s deep appreciation for Dr. Coventry’s visit, reaffirming the country’s steadfast commitment to the development of sport as both a powerful tool for social transformation and a critical economic sector.
“Sport is not just an activity for us—it is a major industry contributing to national mental health, youth empowerment, and economic development,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah stated. Additionally, President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the need for increased investment in sports infrastructure and youth-focused initiatives, noting that the development of young athletes, access to high-performance training, and participation in international competitions are essential for advancing the nation’s sporting excellence.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also highlighted the crucial role of education and sport in instilling discipline in young people. President Nandi-Ndaitwah further expressed Namibia’s eagerness to collaborate with the IOC on various sports development programs, including technical support, skills transfer, training, coaching, and grassroots initiatives, underscoring that investing in sports infrastructure is foundational to empowering the youth, “If we empower our young people through the right facilities, they will have the capacity to take care of us.” Dr. Coventry echoed this sentiment, remarking, “From all of us in the Olympic Movement, infrastructure is key.”
