Windhoek: Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has called on the Namibia Football Association (NFA) and the City of Windhoek to expedite the upgrading of the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Katutura. The prime objective is to enable Namibia's national teams to host international matches on home soil once again.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the Sam Nujoma Stadium has been prohibited from hosting international matches since April 2021. This decision came after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) determined that the facility did not meet the necessary technical standards. During a surprise visit to the stadium, Ngurare emphasized the urgency of infrastructure development, urging stakeholders to collaborate effectively to ensure the project's timely completion.
Ngurare stressed the importance of action over discussion, stating, "As far as sport is concerned, we don't have the luxury of time, so you who are either contractors or engineers, etc., please bring common sense to these things. We don't want constant talk." He outlined that the immediate goal is to have the stadium completed and certified to host international fixtures as soon as possible.
The prime minister also announced that Joseph Amakali would be assigned to monitor the progress of the project. Ngurare noted that his office and the NFA are working on arrangements for the Brave Warriors' upcoming fixtures while the stadium is under renovation. He mentioned being informed that the project is expected to be completed by the end of October 2026. However, an additional N$18 million is required to finalize the outstanding work.
Ngurare acknowledged the City of Windhoek for already investing N$37 million in the project, which is estimated to cost a total of N$60 million. He remarked, "I think all inhabitants of the city should be proud of you. This is money well spent." The remaining tasks include the installation of artificial turf and seats around the stadium, with a CAF inspection required before it can host international matches again.
Ngurare urged the responsible teams to work in parallel with the contractor to avoid unnecessary delays by waiting for one stage to complete before commencing another.