T. NashipaeSports CS Ababu Namwamba insists on need for youth programs in federations
Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 30.01.24. | 08:39
Namwamba was concerned that most federations were only looking for funds to attend/host global competitions, yet had no plans of developing talents
Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba has stressed the significance of incorporating youth programs in different federations to ensure the continuous growth and nurturing of talents.
Speaking during the federations' stakeholders meeting held on Monday, 29 January, the CS noted that his ministry was keen on ensuring an unending pipeline of talents.
This time, he took on a distinctly tough tone, a departure from his usual lighthearted self where he would often indulge in jokes.
"All federations should have a youth development program. What is the future of sports without the youth? If you do not have a talent development program, we will not support you. Come to the government with a youth development program and we will support you," he told the attendees.
Namwamba was concerned that most federations were only looking for funds to attend/host global competitions, yet had no plans of developing talents.
He assured his intense dedication to saving the national teams from the shame of being defeated on home soil during international tournaments.
To achieve that, the Namwamba proposed to federations to invest in sports from as early as the school level.
"When we host AFCON and our teams lose at home, I don't know if I will have the energy to get out of the stadium. We want to avoid that," he said.
In addition, he called on the federations to exercise independence and not solely rely on the Sports Fund.
"Take advantage of opportunities that exist to support their respective federations. Stop being entirely dependent on the Sports Fund.
We have also sacrificed something important to give you that money. Show us to the world.If you want something that you have never had, you must be willing to do something you have never done," he added.
The meeting came to a close with various stakeholders unanimously adopting a communique that would guide the relationship and operations between the ministry and the federations.
