Windhoek: Okarindi Komutati FC head coach Tjituka Ndjai has appealed to businesses, football stakeholders and the community to support the club as it prepares for its maiden campaign in the North West Stream First Division following a historic promotion over the weekend.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the Kunene side secured promotion after finishing second in the North West Stream First Division promotional play-offs held at Etoshapoort Stadium in Outjo. Okarindi Komutati finished with four points, behind Oshana's Okamwandi Sports Club, who topped the standings with a maximum nine points.

The final standings saw Okamwandi Sports Club finish first on nine points with a goal difference of plus 11, followed by Okarindi Komutati FC on four points with a goal difference of plus four. Spoilers Sports Club of Otjozondjupa also finished on four points but settled for third place with a goal difference of plus three, while Future FC of Omusati ended fourth without a point and with a goal difference of minus 19.

Okarindi Komutati qualified for the promotional tournament after replacing Kunene NamPol, who were disqualified together with Otjozondjupa champions Correctional 11 under the Namibia Football Association's single-ownership regulations. The achievement makes Okarindi Komutati the first football club from Opuwo to earn promotion to the North West Stream First Division.

Reacting to the achievement, Ndjai described the promotion as a proud moment for the club and the entire Kaokoland. "It is an unbelievably joyful moment not only for the club. Opuwo and the whole Kaokoland are happy since it is the first time we are going to witness First Division football in Opuwo. The players are enjoying every moment of it," he said.

Looking ahead to the new season, Ndjai said the club's focus has already shifted to preparing for the challenges of competing in the First Division. "The most important part is to lobby potential sponsors. It is a different level that requires proper preparation. We have to bring in experienced players to mentor the young ones, capacitate the technical team and secure proper training grounds," he said.

Ndjai expressed confidence that, with the support of sponsors, football authorities and the people of Kunene, Okarindi Komutati can establish itself in the First Division and continue making the region proud.