Navachab Gold Mine Backs Namibian Runners for Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon

Navachab Gold Mine Backs Namibian Runners for Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon. Four Namibian athletes are set to represent the country at the prestigious Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon in Gqeberha, South Africa, on 28 June 2025, thanks to a partnership between QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine and the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture (MEIYSAC) in Omaruru.

The selected runners include elite athletes Paulus Daniel and Lavinia Haitope, winners of the 2024 Navachab Half Marathon, as well as social runners Victoria Shinime and Lazarus Shangadi. The trip forms part of Namibia’s broader strategy to prepare local talent for international competition, including the 2028 Olympic Games.

Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, Ms. Jo-Ann Manuel, Director of Sport Development, commended Navachab Gold Mine for its continued investment in athlete development. “This partnership is more than financial support—it’s about building a sporting culture that nurtures dreams and delivers results. We thank Navachab for creating international exposure for our athletes,” she said.

Navachab Gold Mine representative Mr. Mclyn Kasale expressed hope that the initiative will strengthen the reputation of the Navachab Half Marathon and inspire aspiring runners. “Our vision is to elevate the event to a level of regional and international recognition. Sending our athletes to Gqeberha is part of a long-term plan to grow local talent and raise the bar for Namibian athletics,” he said.

The Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon, a World Athletics Silver Label Race, attracts top athletes from across the continent and offers valuable experience in a highly competitive environment.