Sport as a tool for development and social change was once again emphasised during the launch of the FNB Global United Climate Kick event, which took place at Okahandja on Wednesday. The town of Okahandja has been chosen this year to host the eighth annual Global Climate Kick event, in Namibia as it will feature fundraising matches and tree planting. Global United is a charity organisation that was established by German footballer Lutz Pfannenstiel in 2010, with the aim to raise awareness of climate change. Former football stars from around the world come to Namibia each year, to go around schools to advocate the message of taking care of the environment and warning of effects of climate change. Giving a keynote address at the launch, was the minister of Environment and Tourism Pohamba Shifeta, who said he is happy that through this event young people who are the future custodians of our environment are targeted. He said the knowledge that is planted in them now will enable them to better take care of the environment now and make proper decisions for its sustainability in future as our future leaders. “ What is happening today is because of human activities , human act not only arrow, but deliberate activities that we are informed about. The danger of undertaking those activities without care, sometimes as human beings. Because climate change is not immediate, it's not something you can see immediately” Shifeta said. He cautioned those who do not recognize the significance of protecting the environment. Shifeta commended the initiative, which - according to him - has come at the right time when the country is facing multiple challenges in terms of environmental protection. He added that Climate Change is one of the biggest challenges facing Namibia as the country continues to experience recurring droughts. The major of Okahandja and former national footballer Congo Hindjou who is also part of Global United, is proud that the event has come to his town, stating that Okahandja is not immune to the effects of climate change. “What they are doing they are going around schools try to educate the kids about the Environment, Climate change. Normally they are trying to educate kids the importance of using plastics and glasses to do recycle. They are also having recycling competition amongst the kids and the best school normally gets the best price, while they will also conduct coaching clinics using this recycled materials” said Hindjou. Youngsters who are already part of the e-club at the school are excited the sports in been incorporated in this noble cause. Michelle Tsuses said “I’ve been doing a lot so far and it has been an amazing experience so far. I’ve learned a lot. Recycling is now my hobby and I really enjoy it a lot and I’m looking forward to the event”. “I learned how to recycle things like the newspapers and turning it into useful things”, said Julinda Ochs. The event, which took place at Gobabis last year, will now be held at Okahandja between the 7th and 10th of March.