21 Brigade mobilises support for Shinima

**Teoporta Nghipunya **

The spotlight is now on what comes next for the newly crowned WBA – North American Boxing Association Light Heavyweight champion, Lance Bombardier Charles Shinima, as the 21 Motorised Infantry Brigade prepares to organise a fitting welcome and fundraising initiative in honour of their member, following his recent international success.

Following Shinima’s return to Namibia on Tuesday, 6 October, after defeating the previously undefeated American boxer Samuel Arnold at Thunder Studios in the United States on Saturday, 10 October, the Brigade has issued a call to action to mobilise resources and attract sponsorship for the champion’s upcoming title defence.

The initiative aims to celebrate Shinima’s achievement while laying the groundwork for his next professional boxing assignment, creating an opportunity to rally institutional, corporate and public support behind a Namibian serviceman whose sporting ambitions could take him to another international stage.

Speaking on the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation’s Good Morning Namibia programme last week, Shinima said he wants to secure sponsors to help prepare for his next title challenge.

Despite his recent success, Shinima currently lacks a confirmed trainer or promoter, underscoring the need for a structured support system to help him prepare for the next stage of his professional career. He said financial backing, professional coaching, promotion, and logistical support will be important as he works towards defending his title.

Captain Hendrick Kapitango said plans were underway to host a reception ceremony for Shinima and his championship belt, with fundraising activities expected to form part of the event. Adding that the initiative will provide an opportunity to celebrate the boxer’s achievement while engaging potential sponsors and partners willing to invest in his future.

According to him, Shinima’s next chapter offers an opportunity for businesses, brands and individuals looking to support Namibian sporting talent to help develop a champion who represents both his country and the Defence Force.

As the Brigade works towards the planned reception and fundraising activities, the focus is shifting from celebrating a victory to building a sustainable support network for the champion’s next challenge, he said.

The call is now open for potential sponsors, corporate partners, boxing promoters and other stakeholders to come forward and help prepare Shinima for his next title defence.

“Supporting Shinima is an investment not only in a boxer’s ambitions, but also in the potential of Namibian talent to compete and excel on the international stage.”

****Teoporta Nghipunya is a Media officer with the Ministry of Defence and veterans Affairs. ***

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