Staff Writer
The Namibian Ports Authority (Namport), Nedbank Namibia, and the Powerhouse Cycling Club have confirmed the dates for the 2025 Walvis Bay Namport Nedbank Powerhouse Challenge. The multisport weekend will take place from 1 to 2 November 2025 in Walvis Bay.
Following the success of the inaugural event held in March 2025 during the Lüderitz Crayfish Festival, the second edition promises to be bigger, drawing top Namibian cyclists, runners, and fitness enthusiasts for a weekend of competition and community spirit.
The challenge will feature various races for both professional athletes and recreational participants. Running events include a 21 km half marathon, a 10 km race, and a 5 km fun run.
The cycling segment offers 70km and 30km mountain bike races, as well as 100km and 50km road races. All cycling competitions will be sanctioned by the Namibian Cycling Federation.
Namport’s manager for marketing and stakeholder engagement, Cliff Shikuambi, said the event serves as a strategic brand-building platform.
“The Walvis Bay edition of the Namport Nedbank Powerhouse Challenge 2025 is a strategic brand-building platform that reinforces Namport’s identity as a people-centred, progressive, and community-invested national brand,” he said.
He added that Namport’s involvement goes beyond its operational role.
“Our participation in this multisport event reflects Namport’s commitment to nation-building, wellness, and stakeholder engagement,” he said.
Shikuambi stated that the partnership with Nedbank and the Powerhouse Cycling Club strengthens Namport’s image as a collaborative leader.
“By aligning with reputable partners such as Nedbank Namibia and the Powerhouse Cycling Club, Namport strengthens its image as a collaborative leader and enabler of social development,” he said.
He noted that the challenge reflects Namport’s core values.
“The Challenge promotes values synonymous with Namport’s brand — resilience, endurance, teamwork, and excellence,” he said. “Hosting the event in Walvis Bay provides a unique opportunity to showcase the city’s world-class infrastructure and community vibrancy. It reinforces Namport’s reputation as a trusted custodian of national assets and a champion of sustainable community upliftment.”
Shikuambi said the event also enhances Namport’s connection with the public.
“Ultimately, the Challenge enhances Namport’s brand equity by deepening emotional connections with stakeholders, strengthening visibility, and demonstrating leadership beyond the port environment,” he said.
Powerhouse Cycling Club representative João da Costa thanked the partners for their support.
“This partnership enables the Powerhouse Cycling Club to further its mission of growing the sport of cycling within Namibia,” he said. “It encourages participation at all levels and creates more opportunities for youth and community engagement through sport.”
Nedbank Namibia’s head of marketing and communications, Gernot de Klerk, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to community development.
“As money experts who do good, Nedbank Namibia has deep roots in Namibia’s southern regions,” he said.
“Our partnership with Namport and the Powerhouse Cycling Club underscores our dedication to investing in people and communities.”
De Klerk said the event promotes health, unity, and sustainable growth.
“We have hosted cycling and running races in Walvis Bay before, and as a precursor to the Nedbank Desert Dash in December, we look forward to this exciting event,” he said.
Building on the momentum of the first edition in Lüderitz, the Walvis Bay Challenge is expected to attract hundreds of participants and spectators.
The coastal terrain, Namport’s logistical expertise, and Nedbank’s experience in sports sponsorship are expected to make the 2025 event a memorable experience.
The event also aims to promote Walvis Bay as a premier destination for sports, wellness, and regional collaboration.
