Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture Dino Ballotti says resource constraints are delaying the construction of 14 regional stadiums, with the ministry expected to push for additional funding during the upcoming mid-term budget debate.

Ballotti also assured the National Assembly that sufficient football fields are available in the Khomas Region to accommodate the upcoming domestic league season across the Premier League, First Division, and Second Division.

The facility issue was raised in the National Assembly by Affirmative Repositioning Member of Parliament George Kambala, who questioned the ministry regarding reported difficulties faced by local football clubs in securing suitable and affordable venues ahead of the league kickoff.

In response, Ballotti acknowledged concerns over the cost of utilizing privately owned stadiums but maintained that enough public and private facilities exist within the region to fulfill match day requirements.

Addressing the government's broader commitment to build sports stadiums in all 14 regions, Ballotti explained that while funding has been allocated and groundbreaking has occurred in selected areas, mandatory professional assessments must be completed before main construction can proceed.

He emphasized that due diligence studies are necessary to ensure public infrastructure can withstand severe weather conditions, citing recent structural damage caused by heavy winds in the Kunene Region as an example of why proper technical evaluations are essential prior to construction.

Ballotti reaffirmed that the ministry will continue advocating for increased financial allocations during the mid-term budget review to accelerate the regional stadium project.

He also confirmed that renovation work at the Sam Nujoma Stadium is ongoing, with the venue expected to reopen for sporting events within the next few months.