Windhoek: Namibia Deaf Sport Federation (NDSF) president, Abner Shaya, has renewed his appeal for financial assistance as his team travels to make its historic debut at the 2025 Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo, Japan. A team of 10 athletes will represent the country in athletics and judo at the 25th edition of the Games, scheduled from 15 to 26 November 2025, marking the 100th anniversary of the Deaflympics, first held in 1924.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Shaya, speaking at the team's sending-off ceremony held on Tuesday, stated that although the athletes are well-prepared and eager to showcase Namibia's talent on the global stage, financial challenges threaten their participation. He highlighted a critical shortfall in funding that jeopardizes their journey despite support from the Ministry of Sport, NamPower, and MTC. The team still requires N.dollars 400,000 to cover travel, accommodation, and competition fees.

Shaya expressed the urgency of the situation, with the team set to depart for Tokyo on Tuesday, 11 November, yet lacking funds for meals in Japan and without confirmed return flight tickets. He emphasized the athletes' dedication and urged for financial support to prevent barriers from hindering their dreams.

Meanwhile, Namibia Sport Commission Chief Administrator Freddy Mwiya, present at the event, acknowledged the financial difficulties while expressing pride in sending off the country's first-ever Deaflympic team. Mwiya announced a provision of N.dollars 70,000 to cover the athletes' meals in Japan, citing current resource limitations due to budgeting constraints, as international competitions are typically budgeted for in August each year. He assured efforts to improve this process in the future.

Mwiya commended the NDSF and its athletes for their determination, noting that their participation marks a historic milestone for Namibia in promoting inclusivity and sporting excellence. Despite the challenges, he expressed pride in Namibia joining the Deaflympic movement for the first time.

In addition to the 10 athletes, Team Namibia's delegation will include the NDSF president, a medical doctor, a physiotherapist, three coaches, an interpreter, and a media representative.