The Leisure Corner with Utaara Mootu

Making great use of her position as a parliamentarian, this week, The PlayMaker brings you closer to a personality that made the nation sit up and listen after an impassioned speech on sport. We also discover that her favourite footballer is also her ‘favourite’ and that she debunks the myth that feminists hate men. Buckle up, as we present the “vibrant, artistic and ultra-passionate” Utaara Mootu.

1. Your articulation on Namibian sport, football in particular, in Parliament caught a lot of attention. Where does the passion for sport come from?

I grew up in a family that religiously followed football. It helped us pass through hardships, united and strengthened my bond with extended family and neighbours. That is when I first discovered the power of sports and fell in love instantly.

2. Did you play any sport growing up? If so, what codes?

Yes, I played football and did athletics, mainly 100m and long jump.

3. How would you describe yourself?

Bold is what I am. I am very straightforward. I never shy away from the truth. I am vibrant, artistic, a feminist, and passionate in advocating for social justice. I am hardworking, always ready for the next challenge, and curious by nature. [I am always] looking forward to learning and expanding my abilities. I may come off as serious most times, but being goofy is my love language.

4. As a young person, what role does sport play in society?

Sport is a vital tool for youth development; it goes beyond the health benefit. For many young people from broken, poverty-stricken households, it has helped them to stay out of trouble. It has provided a platform for selfimprovement, mentorship, and growth. Discipline is a pre-requisite for sport thus, discipline is not only enhanced around sports activities, but in instilling good morals and values in society. This is crucial for social transformation in society. It serves as a boost in confidence, particularly for young people in grooming and shaping the lens in which they view themselves and society, and they become better contributors to social transformation.

5. How important is it in terms of community development?

Sport is essential to the transformation of society. It has served and continues to serve as a tool for empowerment, as members of communities are either empowered directly through those who take part in sports activities, or through the indirect social protectionist systems that are created to help the less fortunate in communities. It serves as a unifier; it sees no race, gender and status.

6. Is there any football team, local or International, you follow religiously?

Manchester United.

7. What do you think of women's football?

Women for centuries have been excluded from taking part in sport. The first female football game is said to have taken place in 1895. Ever since then women’s football has been slowly making strides in their women’s development and projects. We have had a few international exports such as Zenatha Coleman and other talented players. This is a great move in the right direction.

8. Does Namibia have the capacity to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which we are planning to bid for alongside Botswana?

Yes, we have the full capacity to host these games. Being a co-host relieves the fiscal pressure. However, with regards to other criteria such as safety and hospitality, Namibia is at a competitive advantage. Effectively hosting the games would require competent leadership and commitment from the government.

9. Who is your favourite Namibian footballer?

Loydt Kazapua.

10. We hear you have a powerful prayer buddy. Any wedding bells?

Yes, when you discover such love, you want to grow old with it.

11. Given a choice, would you holiday in Bora Bora or Zanzibar?

I have always wanted to see Changu Island, popularly known as the ‘prison island’ in Zanzibar, plus the PanAfricanist in me would always choose Zanzibar.

12. What would you say are your personal political ambitions and where does sport fit into them?

My main political ambition is to see the full emancipation of young people and thus, the transformation of sports as a major industry of interests and economic benefit for young people. It is the core of my advocacy.

13. Lastly, what has been your highlight as a politician so far?

Being elected as one of the youngest members of Parliament played a crucial role in my political career, as it allowed me to raise issues of social concern on national and international platforms.