Cricket Namibia recently hosted a corporate breakfast, bringing together partners to celebrate milestones and discuss the continued development of cricket in the country. A highlight of the event was the generous contribution from Ashburton Investments, reinforcing its dedication to grassroots sports development.
At the event, Gert Grobler, Chief Operations Officer of Ashburton Investments, handed over a cheque of N$800,000 towards the Ashburton Kwata Cricket Development Programme. This initiative, which began in 2009, was designed to introduce cricket to communities across Namibia while promoting active and healthy lifestyles among young people, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.
“The journey of the Ashburton Kwata Cricket Development Programme is nothing short of remarkable,” Grobler stated during his address. “From its humble beginnings, it has grown into a nationwide success story, now reaching all 14 regions of Namibia and engaging over 69,000 children. With 72 trained coaches, the programme exemplifies what can be achieved when we invest in young talent.”
The growth of the programme is evident. In 2020, it reached 39,000 children, and that number has now nearly doubled, reflecting the increasing love for cricket across Namibia. Ashburton Investments Namibia funds the programme through the FirstRand Namibia Foundation Trust, underscoring its commitment to social development and the power of sport to transform lives.
“By investing in sports and physical education, we empower the youth to break barriers, build skills, and strive for excellence both on and off the field,” Grobler added. “Ashburton Investments believes in the value of teamwork and nation-building. Supporting grassroots cricket is an investment in Namibia’s future.”
The success of the Ashburton Kwata Cricket Development Programme serves as a testament to the impact of strategic collaborations between public and private sectors. It demonstrates how sport can bridge societal gaps, foster connections, and contribute to the economic and social growth of the nation.
Grobler encouraged more corporates to follow Ashburton’s lead in supporting youth development through sport. “For Ashburton Investments, doing what matters is at the core of our mission. We hope to inspire others to contribute towards building a stronger, more united community through sport.”
He concluded with a message to the young participants of the Kwata Cricket Programme: “Keep pushing your boundaries, stay focused on your goals, and know that the skills you gain through cricket will benefit you in many areas of life. Whether you aspire to be a professional cricketer or aim to excel in other fields, your journey matters, and you are part of something much bigger.”
With continued investment and support, the future of Namibian cricket looks brighter than ever, ensuring that more young athletes have the opportunity to thrive, develop, and dream big.
