Namibia to host first-ever Africa Traditional Games

Namibia has been selected to host the inaugural Africa Traditional Games in 2026.

The decision was announced during the signing ceremony of the host agreement between the African Traditional Sports and Games Confederation (ATSGC) and MTC Dome Namibia.

President Michael Mustapha of the ATSGC expressed his confidence in Namibia's readiness and commitment to hosting this historic event. "Based on assessments and the preparedness we noticed, we decided that Namibia would be the ideal country to host this event," Mustapha said during his address.

He emphasised the importance of promoting and preserving African traditional sports as a means to foster unity and showcase cultural diversity across the continent.

Scheduled for 2026 under the theme "Infuse Cultural Diversity", the Africa Traditional Games will feature a diverse range of traditional sports, including ball games, batting sports, combat sports, dances, mind games, racquet sports, target sports and water sports.

Mustapha highlighted ongoing efforts to standardise certain games and determine which will be competitive and which will be featured as exhibitions.

"The richness and diversity of African traditional sports are integral to our cultural heritage," Mustapha explained. "Through these games, we aim to not only celebrate our past but also inspire future generations to embrace and cherish our unique sporting traditions."

Strategic roadmap

Fanus Engelbrecht, CEO of MTC Dome Namibia, outlined the strategic roadmap leading to the event. "In two years, this will be a huge event with thousands of people coming to Swakopmund, to the MTC Dome, to Namibia for this," Engelbrecht affirmed. "But more importantly, the journey from now until then is crucial."

Engelbrecht emphasised the importance of community engagement and education in preparing for the Africa Traditional Games. "We need to reintroduce these traditional sports into the community, to educate and inspire," he noted.

The CEO highlighted upcoming initiatives such as workshops, conferences, and local competitions aimed at revitalising interest in traditional sports.

"We aim to establish the Dome as the ultimate destination for traditional sporting games, a hub that breathes life into these activities," Engelbrecht stated.

Reflecting on upcoming events at the Dome, he highlighted the Namibia Sports Expo and Conference scheduled for October. "This event promises to be very special, with international speakers and federations gathering to discuss long-term athlete preparation, crucial as we approach future Olympic cycles."

Engelbrecht also unveiled plans for a three-nation indoor hockey tournament, featuring teams from Namibia, Malaysia, and Argentina, alongside international chess and netball tournaments. "These activities, coupled with the TRX Africa Summit and a major volleyball tournament, underscore our commitment to sports diversity and excellence," he added.

Olympic recognition

President Mustapha articulated a bold vision for African sports on the global stage. "We've noticed that there are no African-originated games in the Olympic structure. Our objective is to have one or two African-originated games included in the Olympics by 2032.

"This initiative not only aims to enhance our competitiveness but also to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Africa on a global platform. It's about time that African sports and games receive the recognition they deserve."

As preparations gain momentum, Namibia and the ATSGC extend an invitation to nations across Africa to participate actively in this historic event. Updates and further details on participation, sponsorship opportunities, and event logistics will be available on the official ATSGC website and social media channels.

"The Africa Traditional Games in Namibia represent a unique opportunity to unite our continent through sport. Together, we can celebrate our diversity, promote social cohesion, and inspire future generations,” Mustapha concluded.