Otjozombangane anniversary tourney this weekend in England

Zebaldt Ngaruka 

Stoke-on-Trent is preparing to host a landmark sporting event this weekend: the Otjozombangane Anniversary tournament, celebrating its 10th anniversary in England. 

Kicking off this Saturday at Millhayes Sports Ground, the highly anticipated event will bring together close to 10 football teams composed of peers from different areas across England to battle for the championship title and honour the tournament’s rich history.

Speaking to New Era Sports, Turitja Nguvauva, one of the competition organisers, said the tournament’s core objective is to preserve the culture of Namibian peers living in England and promote a sporting atmosphere within peer groups. 

“Although many of us live far from Namibia, our traditions, language, food and music continue to connect us to our roots and should be passed on to future generations,” he said. 

Nguvauva said the football competition will be the major highlight, with eight teams registered to compete in a N$48 000 worth tournament, adding that there will be a trophy and medals for winners.

The winner in a knockout competition will take home a trophy, N$32 000 and two gold medals, while the runners up will pocket N$15 000 in addition to 20 silver medals. 

“We will also have special prices for the player of the tournament, goalkeeper of the tournament, golden boot and fair play awards,” he added. 

Otjokaurumbu won the previous competition, and this year it will face a tough battle against the hosts Otjozombangane, Otjejoviwondo, Otjombara Gerson Uiiue Hoveka, Otjombara David Ndisiro, and Otjozombande.

Both Otjozombangane and Otjokaurumbu will have B teams in the prestigious competition.

Otjokaurumbu’s head coach, Nguvitjita Tjijapaa Herunga, told this publication that his team is excited to be back as defending champions. 

“Winning in 2024 was a special moment for Otjokaurumbu, but that is now history. We know every team will be coming prepared, and as defending champions, we also know that everyone will want to beat us,” he said.

Herunga added that the team is more motivated; preparations have been going well, the boys are hungry, and the team’s spirit is strong. 

“We are not coming to live on the name of what we achieved in 2024; we are coming to compete and prove ourselves again. May the best team win, but of course, we would love to take the trophy back home to Otjokaurumbu,” said Herunga. 

Meanwhile, the organiser added that visitors will enjoy Namibian food, with Ovanatje va Tjitambi and Tuja Stalls serving fat cakes, outete, braai meat, potjiekos, and more.

On Saturday, the entertainment will include live performance from renowned singers like Diop Katuuo, Suko-White Kejarukua, Vatuko Dolly, Cello Marenga, DJ Junior, Ndjitjoo and Tjiurimo Hange wa Kombomi.

“We will conclude our celebrations on Sunday with 10th anniversary cake cutting and a communal meal,” said Nguvauva. 

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