Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Young African Football Club chairman Maleagi Ngarizemo has backed calls for the Namibia Premier League (NPL) to become independent from the Namibia Football Association (NFA).
Speaking this week, Ngarizemo said the league has reached a critical point and must embrace independence to drive growth and secure long-term sponsorships.
“By transitioning to an independent structure, the NPL can enhance self-sustainability, attract greater sponsorship, and elevate the competitiveness of Namibian football on the continental and global stage,” he said.
He pointed to global examples, including the English Premier League and South Africa’s Betway Premiership, as proof that self-governance works.
These leagues, he said, manage their own commercial rights, negotiate broadcast deals, and roll out development programmes.
As a result, they bring in more money, improve infrastructure, and strengthen clubs.
He said Namibia must follow this model, as dependence on external governance weakens the league’s ability to innovate and raise funds.
“Independence would empower the Premier League to attract major sponsorships, an independent league can directly engage corporate partners, offering tailored sponsorship opportunities that benefit both brands and clubs. This financial boost would improve player salaries, stadium facilities, and marketing reach,” he said.
He explained that independence would allow clubs to build their brands and secure their sponsors.
This, he said, would create new revenue streams from merchandise, ticket sales, and broadcast rights, and reduce reliance on unstable funding.
With more money, Ngarizemo said, clubs could invest in coaching, scouting, and youth development, raising the level of competition and boosting Namibia’s performance in African tournaments.
He added that an independent league could also enhance the fan experience.
“Independent leagues can implement modern fan engagement strategies, digital platforms, and high-quality broadcasts, making the Premier League more attractive to viewers and investors.”
Calling on stakeholders to act, Ngarizemo said the success of football in countries like South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia shows what Namibia could achieve.
“Stakeholders, including NFA, Sport Commission, Clubs, Sponsors, and Government, must support the Premier League’s transition to independence immediately,” he said.
“We must take control of our football destiny as club owners; an independent Namibia Premier League will create opportunities for clubs to grow, attract investment, and ensure long-term sustainability. The time for change is now, and clubs must note that they are the custodians and shareholders of the league and not those running the NFA, so this decision lies fully with us.”
He urged NPL clubs and football leaders to work together to create a governance and funding model based on transparency and accountability.
