Windhoek, February 13 — In a landmark moment for Namibian volleyball, Ihula Tobias Naushanga has emerged as the country’s second certified international referee capping off an intensive training course in Cairo, Egypt with a prestigious qualification certificate.
Naushanga, a dedicated official from Namibia’s vibrant volleyball community, successfully completed the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) endorsed referee course held in the Egyptian capital. The multi-week program known for its rigorous demands tested participants on advanced rules interpretation, match officiating under pressure and the latest global standards for indoor volleyball.
This achievement elevates Naushanga to elite status, joining a short list of Namibian pioneers in international refereeing. He becomes a second Namibian to hold this FIVB international badge following in the footsteps of the nation’s trailblazing first referee Fillemon “Kacks” Amupadhi. For a country where volleyball is rapidly growing fueled by passionate local leagues and youth programs Naushanga’s success opens new doors. “Ihula’s qualification means we can now officiate at higher continental and world events with homegrown talent reducing reliance on foreign refs and boosting our global presence.”
Naushanga’s journey to Cairo wasn’t straightforward, As an active referee in Namibia’s circuits he honed his craft through countless local matches, from the high-stakes Namibia National Championships to regional tournaments in Windhoek and beyond. His selection for the FIVB course came after excelling in national assessments where he demonstrated sharp decision making and a deep understanding of the sport’s fast paced dynamics. In Cairo, alongside referees from Egypt, Kenya, South Africa and other African nations, Naushanga navigated practical sessions, video analysis and simulated high pressure finals emerging not just certified but ready to whistle at Volleyball World Championships or African qualifiers.
As Namibia’s volleyball scene continues to spike mirroring the sport’s surge across southern Africa Naushanga’s milestone signals bigger things ahead. Whether calling tight sets in Windhoek games or under the lights of international arenas, he’s now equipped to referee at the highest level.
Martha Jeremia
