Yesterday marked what would have been the 97th birthday of Namibia's Founding President, Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, who is remembered not only as the Father of the Namibian Nation, but also as a key figure in shaping the country's sporting landscape.
Even after his passing in February this year, members of Namibia's sporting fraternity continued to reflect on the legacy he left behind, particularly in sport development, administration and national unity through sport.
As Namibia reflected on the life and legacy of its Founding President, many within the sporting fraternity said Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma's contribution to sport remains embedded in the country's sporting identity.
Following Namibia's independence in 1990, sport became one of the tools used to unite a nation emerging from division.
Under Nujoma's leadership, Namibia gained international sporting recognition, becoming affiliated with international bodies such as FIFA and the International Olympic Committee, allowing Namibian athletes and teams to compete internationally under the national flag.
Much of the country's sporting administrative structures were also strengthened during the early years of independence, laying the foundation for federations, regional participation and talent development pathways still used today.
The Namibia Sport Commission said the Founding President's belief in people, particularly young Namibians, played a role in creating opportunities for athletes across the country.
"The founding president played a critical role in the establishment of the sports industry in the country. First, he believed in his people. He believed in us, united us, and then he provided all the resources that were required for us to compete nationally and internationally. If you look at the milestones set back then by the likes of Frankie Fredericks, Harry Simon, Daniel Hitembwe and others, they performed that way because he availed the resources for them."
Beyond elite sport, Samulandela said Nujoma championed inclusivity, ensuring sport reached communities beyond urban centres and created opportunities for every Namibian child, regardless of background or ability.
Yesterday, Namibia's sporting landscape included women's sport, Paralympic sport, Special Olympics and deaf sport - progress many believe aligned with the inclusive vision he stood for.
"What would have made the founding president proud today is the inclusion of women in sport, and also athletes living with disabilities. For him, it was all about the Namibian child, and inclusivity was his motto, that every Namibian must celebrate and feel happy to be Namibian. These are some of the things, together with medals won internationally, that could have made him very proud today."
At the Namibia Football Association, officials said football continues to benefit from policies and systems put in place during Dr Nujoma's presidency.
The late statesman was instrumental in creating an environment where football could grow, with political support and government backing helping the sport establish itself nationally and internationally.
His legacy remained visible, from Namibia's FIFA membership to infrastructure such as the Sam Nujoma Stadium in Katutura, named in his honour.
"The founding father was instrumental in many ways. He believed in the youth and created a conducive environment for football and sports in particular. Through his leadership, there was commitment and support for football development, and that legacy continues today. No wonder the stadium in Katutura is named after the founding father, Sam Nujoma Stadium. NFA is still benefiting from that legacy."
Moetie further said preserving the vision established during Nujoma's leadership remains important, particularly as Namibia continues investing in sporting facilities and development structures aimed at future generations.
He said continuity in leadership and long-term planning are essential in ensuring the foundations laid after independence continue to benefit Namibian sport.
"It is critical because visions are there for those following to pick up and run with. The vision was laid by the founding father and successive presidents continued with it. There has been a consistent handover of the baton, and that continuity is important because it ensures we keep building instead of starting over."
From athletics to boxing, football to Paralympic sport, many of Namibia's sporting milestones can be traced back to structures and opportunities developed during the country's formative years of independence.
And while Dr Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma may no longer be here to witness the continued growth of Namibian sport, members of the sporting fraternity said his legacy continues through the achievements and aspirations of athletes across the country.
On what would have been his 97th birthday yesterday, Namibia remembered and reflected on a leader whose vision extended beyond politics into the lives of generations of sportsmen and women.