Tough act to follow for Commonwealth Games team

The Namibia National Olympic Committee announced a team of 23 athletes and 16 support staff for the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, spanning six sports and led by chef de mission Joseph Amakali. Namibia will be competing for the eighth time since debuting in Victoria, Canada in 1994, and has collected 24 medals in total: five gold, four silver and 15 bronze. The 2022 Birmingham Games yielded four bronze medals, Namibia’s second-most ever from a single Commonwealth event. Paralympian Ananias Shikongo is back in the squad, but most athletes will be taking part in their first Commonwealth Games. NNOC president Ndeulipula Hamutumwa expressed optimism about Namibia’s chances.

From July 23 to August 2, Glasgow is going to be on fire, and Namibia is going to bring fire, Hamutumwa said, urging fans to unite behind Team Namibia. He recalled Namibia’s 2014 Glasgow visit and asserted that the nation intends to conquer the games again. Amakali pledged unwavering support to every athlete and official to create an environment for peak performances. The team’s preparation aligns with Namibia’s Sixth National Development Plan, which recognises sport’s role in youth empowerment, social cohesion and national identity. British high commissioner Neil Bradley noted the Games’ history of friendship, respect and excellence and saw Namibia’s participation as a reminder of shared values.