Catching dreams: Kwata Cricket arrives in Lüderitz

Ashburton Investments has announced a sponsorship of N$992,000 for the Kwata Cricket Programme, a youth development initiative run by Cricket Namibia (CN) that was also formally launched in Lüderitz on Saturday.

"Kwata" means "catch", while the programme's slogan is "Catch Your Dream". The Ashburton Kwata Cricket Program is designed to introduce young children to the game of cricket while promoting important values such as teamwork, discipline, respect, inclusion, and healthy lifestyles.

In remarks delivered on his behalf by Cricket Namibia marketing manager Natalia Nauyoma, Cricket Namibia chief executive officer Johan Muller said the programme aimed to create opportunities for young people through sport.

"Together, we are building something bigger than a game. It is about showing every boy and girl that, regardless of where they come from, they have a place in this cricket dream," he said.

Muller highlighted that the programme had already demonstrated its potential in other parts of the country.

"It is often on dusty fields in small towns where dreams begin. The children who succeed are those who remain committed, attend training regularly and continue to work hard," he said.

He cited the example of Max Heingo, who progressed through the Kwata programme before making his international debut for Namibia at the age of 16.

"Today, Max is supporting his family and stands as a symbol of what we hope to achieve through this programme, both in cricket and in life," Muller said.

He added that Cricket Namibia currently has 15 male and 16 female national players who earn an income through the sport.

"Every one of them started as a child with a dream. Their success is made possible through the dedication of our development officers and programme coordinators," he said.

Representing Ashburton Investments, Michael Ndonga said the partnership with Cricket Namibia, supported by the FirstRand Namibia Foundation, reflected the company's commitment to youth development and sustainable community investment.

According to Ndonga, the programme has created opportunities for young people, inspired communities and demonstrated the value of nurturing talent from an early age.

"The Kwata Cricket Programme holds a special place in our hearts because sports development starts at grassroots level. Great athletes, leaders and role models are developed through opportunities such as these," he said.

Ndonga highlighted former programme participants, including Ben Shikongo, Max Heingo and Junior Taanyando, who have gone on to represent Namibia internationally.

He said cricket had experienced significant growth in Namibia and that the programme had already made a positive impact in communities across the country.

"We have no doubt that the young people of Lüderitz will embrace this opportunity with the same enthusiasm, determination and passion," he said.

Ndonga encouraged participants to make the most of the opportunity.

"Learn, grow, support one another and enjoy the journey. We hope this programme will produce future players, coaches, leaders and ambassadors, while also equipping young people with skills and values that will help them succeed in life," he said.

He also thanked Cricket Namibia and its leadership for their contribution to the growth of the sport in Namibia.

Junior Mutaleni, who introduced cricket training sessions in Lüderitz four years ago and now manages the Ashburton Kwata Cricket Programme, described the sponsorship as a significant opportunity for young people in the harbour town.

"This programme is free of charge and open to any child in Lüderitz and elsewhere in the country. I am encouraging parents to allow their kids to join it. We want to create opportunities for young people and help develop players who can progress to national level," he said.