New NVF general-secretary to prioritise funding

NAMPA



The Namibia Volleyball Federation's (NVF) new general-secretary, Donald Doeseb, has vowed to push for the establishment of a sport funding policy in Namibia.

Doeseb, who will head the federation for one year, said Namibia should adopt a sport funding policy to address the struggles most local sport codes experience and it should be done with the inclusion of key stakeholders.



Sponsors are key

“There are many funding models Namibia can adopt, such as the introduction of a mandatory sport levy for all businesses. A number of corporates can adopt a sport code for three years and then rotate to the next sport code as long as they do business in Namibia, and this could be considered as a tax write-off,” he said.

Doeseb said this is but one possible option, but in the meantime, administrators have to work with what they have.

“We have to focus on creating sound and transparent sporting bodies that attract the attention of sponsors,” he said.

Doeseb further stated that one of his short-term plans is to ensure that the people, systems and processes within NVF are effective and efficient.



Volleyball must be represented

“We need to establish and clearly outline roles and responsibilities across all structures to avoid duplication of efforts. Medium to long-term plans will focus on implementing the strategic vision of the NVF with the executive team, governance, development, stakeholder engagement and capacity building. We will ensure that the sport of volleyball is well represented in all 14 regions from an administrative, developmental and participatory point of view,” he said.

The secretary-general also said the grassroots level remains a key factor in the development of any sport.

Approached for comment on Doeseb's ideas for a sports funding policy, Namibia Sport Commission chief administrator Freddy Mwiya said the ministry of sport is reviewing sport policies and funding forms part of the discussion.