• Sport

Cricket hub launched in Mondesa

• 4 Days Ago

Swakopmund’s efforts to expand youth development and grassroots sport received a boost with the handover and launch of the Mondesa Cricket Hub at Hanganeni Primary School on Wednesday, 17 June.

The facility, developed in partnership between Langer Heinrich Uranium Mine and Cricket Namibia, is the result of a three-year N$700 000 investment aimed at promoting cricket in underserved communities. It is part of the broader #Cricket4All initiative that seeks to make cricket more accessible across Namibia.

Speaking at the launch, Swakopmund deputy mayor Suamma Kautondokwa said the new facility aligned with the council’s commitment to inclusive development and sport-driven economic growth. “We recognise the growing value of integrating sports and recreation into our economic framework, creating opportunities for talent development, small business growth, and event-driven tourism.

“Facilities like the Mondesa Cricket Hub provide young people with a platform to dream, to train, to compete and potentially to shine on national and international stages.”

Erongo governor Neville Andre described the project as a milestone in transforming perceptions around cricket in township communities. “There was a time cricket was not a sport in Mondesa. Today, we stand on this magnificent ground, a dedicated hub for cricket, shattering that old perception completely,” he said.

“This hub is a beacon of change... it is an investment in our youth, our community’s health, and the future champions of Namibian cricket.”



'Invaluable contribution'

Andre said the hub directly supports President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah’s key development priority of sports infrastructure and praised the contribution of Erongo cricketers to national teams.

“The Erongo Region is making an invaluable contribution to our national cricket teams,” he said, naming players from the region, including Wilgar and Mekke Mwatile, Naomi Benjamin, Saima Tuadheleni, Ado Ita, Ben Shikongo, and J.J. Smith.

“As we launch this facility today, we honour them for their contribution.”

Langer Heinrich Uranium Mine managing director Johan Roux reaffirmed the mine’s long-term partnership with Cricket Namibia. “This is not a one-time contribution but part of a broader commitment to building a better, more inclusive Swakopmund.”

Cricket Namibia also expressed its gratitude and highlighted the hub’s role in identifying and nurturing young talent.

“Today’s event marks a meaningful step in realising our #Cricket4All campaign... it reflects what can be achieved when stakeholders unite for a common purpose,” said Jona Ambuga of Cricket Namibia.

The facility includes cricket nets and will be accessible to youth in the community under the stewardship of Hanganeni Primary School. Learners and educators were urged to take ownership of the hub, maintain its standards, and use it to cultivate both sporting and life skills.

“This is your hub, your place to learn, play and dream,” said Andre. “Respect the pitch, the nets, the changing rooms. Treat them well, and they will serve generations to come.”