Kirsty Coventry, the newly appointed first female President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), paid a courtesy call to President, Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and discussed the pivotal role that sport development plays in shaping the mental and physical well-being of the nation's citizens.

This marks the first country she has visited since assuming the prestigious IOC role, underscoring the significance of Namibia's growing role in the global sports landscape.

Coventry and her delegation are in the country for the 5th Africa Athletes Forum, which brings together athlete representatives from across the continent to discuss pertinent issues regarding sport.

Dr. Netumbo emphasized that sport is not only essential for national pride but also for the overall development of young people, equipping them with life skills such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience.

In response, Kirsty Coventry highlighted the critical importance of infrastructure in advancing sport across Africa.

She stressed that well-developed sports facilities and systems are fundamental to unlocking the potential of athletes and fostering future champions.

According to Coventry, infrastructure development remains a key factor in addressing the challenges faced by African nations in their quest for sporting excellence.

The discussions were timely, as Namibia's recent budget included a notable allocation aimed at the development of sports.

The government has committed a significant lump sum to empower the youth through sports programs, recognizing the transformative power of sports in shaping healthier, more engaged citizens.

Coventry's visit signals an encouraging future for sport development in Namibia and across Africa, offering hope for stronger infrastructure, better opportunities for athletes, and continued support for youth empowerment.