Okarindi: Okarindi Komutati FC has shifted its focus to securing promotion to the North West First Division after earning a place in the promotional play-offs following the disqualification of Kunene Nampol FC.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Kunene Nampol FC, champions of the Kunene Second Division, and Correctional 11 FC, champions of the Otjozondjupa Second Division, were disqualified from the North West Stream First Division promotional play-offs. It emerged that both clubs fall under the same ownership, the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, contrary to the rules and regulations of the Namibia Football Association (NFA).

The ruling paved the way for Kunene runners-up Okarindi Komutati FC to replace Kunene Nampol FC, while either Spoilers FC or Okakarara VTC FC will replace Correctional 11 FC as Otjozondjupa's representative.

Speaking to Nampa on Wednesday, Okarindi Komutati FC head coach Tjituka Sunday Ndjai said the club had anticipated the official announcement and immediately shifted its attention to preparing for the play-offs. "We just waited for the official announcement. It did not come as a surprise. We felt excited, and I thank the management for their unwavering support and our players for putting their trust in us," he said.

Ndjai acknowledged the disappointment facing Kunene Nampol FC, saying the players had worked tirelessly throughout the season. "Kunene Nampol FC stood firm and steadfast in their preparation from the first match of the season. It felt disheartening to learn at the last minute that what they had prepared for did not comply with the regulations, whether knowingly or unknowingly," he said.

He said training programmes had already been put in place to ensure Okarindi Komutati FC entered the play-offs fully prepared. Despite expecting stiff competition, Ndjai said the club remained confident of securing one of the promotion places. "It will not come easily, but we remain optimistic," he said.

Ndjai added that promotion would be a significant achievement for the Kunene Region, which currently has no team competing in the North West First Division. The North West Stream First Division promotional play-offs, scheduled for 18 and 19 July 2026, will feature Okamwandi United FC (Oshana), Okarindi Komutati FC (Kunene), either Spoilers FC or Okakarara VTC FC (Otjozondjupa), and Future FC (Omusati).