Namibia is gearing up for a groundbreaking entry into coastal rowing, with ambitions to compete at both the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. 

The Namibian Canoeing and Rowing Federation (NCRF) has embraced this new chapter with optimism, focusing on beach sprint rowing  a fast-paced, dynamic discipline making its Youth Olympic debut in 2026.

After financial constraints forced Namibia to miss international rowing events in 2024, NCRF president Mike Haimbodi is confident that 2025 will mark a turning point. The federation has actively engaged potential sponsors, aiming to strengthen Namibia’s rowing scene through domestic competitions and international representation.

“This year we will focus on the new discipline known as ‘ocean canoeing’ that will be part of the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar.” Haimbodi told Desert FM. “We are hopeful and confident to select a competitive national team who will compete in different national competitions.”

A key event on the calendar is the national rowing championship in April, where the best young rowers will be selected for Namibia’s Youth Olympic team. This team will then embark on a rigorous preparation journey, aiming for qualification at the 2025 World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals in Rio de Janeiro.

Beyond Dakar 2026, Namibia is also setting its sights on Los Angeles 2028, where beach sprint rowing will make its full Olympic debut. Coastal rowing—a discipline that thrives in challenging open-water conditions—has gained global momentum, and Namibia is determined to be part of the movement.

With a renewed commitment to rowing, strategic planning, and growing interest from sponsors, Namibia is on the path to making history in Olympic coastal rowing.