Guest blog by Sonny Beukes, British High Commission Windhoek Press and Public Affairs officer.
There was a big commotion at Wernhil Park in central Windhoek last Saturday, 28 April. Olympic banners and flags decorated the openspace in front of Pick n Pay where the British High Commission, in collaboration with the Namibia National Olympic Committee and their sponsors, held a joint outreach event with one goal in mind: “to build up local awareness as well as upholding the spirit of the London 2012 Olympic Games”.
Radio Fresh FM broadcasted live from the mall and plenty of people were drawn to the venue to learn more about the upcoming Greatest Show on Earth. The Namibian national fencing group gave a presentation about the sport; zumba dancers entertained the crowd and people were not shy to dance along. Nampost sold special Olympic stamps to raise pocket money for the athletes and Virgin Active gave a spinning demonstration to encourage a healthy lifestyle with sport. Namibia Beverages was ready to hand out energy drinks and merchandise to the enthusiastic children.
Namibia’s qualified Paralympic athletes, Ananias Shikongo and Martin Alois, were happy to take pictures with their fans and their presence was immensely appreciated. People were eager to ask for their autographs, which they happily gave with a smile.
Samsung had a big display screen where the London 2012 ‘Going for Green’ film was screened throughout the event. People were fascinated to learn about the development of the stadiums.
The High Commission stall with the special Olympic merchandise was the highlight of the day. Everyone wanted to know how they could lay their hands on it. Children had the opportunity to take part in an Olympic-themed quiz, standing the chance to win the fantastic merchandise (including special Olympic caps, towels and clothes) as prizes. The special hint was to watch the film in order to get the right answers. Soon fingers were up in the air with the correct answers.
The outreach event was a wonderful chance to underline both GREAT Britain and Namibia’s commitment in building our joint excitement for what is set to be the greatest show on earth.
The Olympic fever was contagious and felt at Wernhil Park. Roll on the Games!