
In a powerful speech at the ongoing Doc Jubber Volleyball Tournament in Swakopmund, Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts, and Culture, Dino Ballotti, made a call for greater investment in volleyball, emphasizing the sport's potential for growth with the right support.
The tournament, drawing teams from across Namibia, has become a key showcase of both talent and the growing popularity of the sport in the country. Ballotti, while commending the efforts of the tournament organizers, stressed the need for continuous and increased backing—both financially and structurally—to ensure volleyball's development and sustainability in Namibia.
"Mr. P and your team, as a nation, we are not doing enough for volleyball. Going forward, we are committed to finding resources and increasing funding for Volleyball Namibia. We will do more. In the coming weeks and months, we will work with you to ensure this tournament happens more than once a year," Ballotti pledged, highlighting the ministry’s commitment to the sport's future.
The Doc Jubber Tournament, which is quickly becoming a national highlight, features teams from all 14 regions of Namibia, further emphasizing the sport's growing appeal.
Tobias Eden Mwatelulo, President of the Namibia Volleyball Federation, welcomed the Deputy Minister's remarks, particularly his assurance of financial and infrastructural support. Mwatelulo noted that the government has already approved a significant budget, with 50 million earmarked for the national league and a total of 200 million for the development of volleyball. With plans for improved facilities, including the Katutura Youth Complex, Mwatelulo expressed optimism about the future of the sport.
"The support is very encouraging—it makes things easier," Mwatelulo said. "With better planning and more resources, we can improve not only the tournament but also our infrastructure."
With increasing interest from players, fans, and stakeholders, there is growing hope that volleyball in Namibia will continue to thrive, provided the right support continues to build momentum.