Yesterday we saw the official launch of the new cooperation between Botswana and Germany, more specifically the long-term project of the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB). The goal of the DOSB project is to develop sports, especially football with main focus on coach education, talent identification and development of structure in both men and women football.

The DOSB project will reignite and strengthens the relationship between Germany and Botswana. It will also improve cooperation in the field of sports specifically football. The project is led by Dr Carolin Braun.

When speaking at Lekidi Auditorium yesterday morning, Dr Braun said the passion of sports is what brings people together, especially football.
“We all believe in the power of sports to change life. And many of us have experienced it all over the world,” said Dr Braun.

She said DOSB believe in the power of sports to have an impact on a personal, community and societal level.

“Sports has the power to bring people together independent of their background, language, gender, class or ability. On the pitch all players are on an equal playing field, “continued Dr Braun.

Braun warned that it’s not only about the most talented players and the score and movements, but also about education on and off the field. It’s about instilling values such as respect, tolerance, fair play and teamwork. She said children should be taught life skills so as to give them self esteem and voice.

Braun, who arrived in Botswana in the middle of February this year, says she was amazed by people’s passion and hard work, all in the improvement of football.

“I see coaches who are spending money from their pockets to realise the transport of players to training sessions. I see players, for example when I was with young girls in Francistown, playing in socks, or even barefoot on stony ground, ” acknowledged Dr Braun.

She said she was also impressed by BFA which is trying to achieve and expand the goals of their development with the help of different organisations all over the world such as FIFA or the DOSB.