Connect with us

News

Football Give Violence The RED Card

Gender-Based Violence has increasingly gained attention in our the world and our nation. Though it occurs to both males and females, we see more females subjected to this monster than males. This is mostly because of cultures, traditional beliefs, norms and social institutions, alcohol and substance abuse, poverty, etc. Violence against women is a persistent and universal problem occurring in every culture and social group. Around the world, at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise abused in her lifetime – most often by someone she knows, including a member of her own family, an employer or a co-worker.

Gender-Based Violence is a violation of human rights. Over the years GBV has been growing rapidly in our nation. It is with great sadness to see that even though the government and the nation are fighting and standing against GBV, it is still on the rise to a point where Botswana is reported to be the second on the leader board of Gender-Based Violence in the world. A girl child and woman are no longer safe in a place where it should be habitation with peace and harmony.

It seems like there is no place of safety for females because they are abused everywhere (at home, school, work or even when going to the shops). It is sickening to know that even babies and people with disabilities are sexually abused by people who should be their protectors. Girls and women are living in constant fear because abuse is coming from within the home/relationship and outside the home. Some cases are not even reported due to threats and fear. In most cases, the relatives/family members know about the abuse but choose to turn a blind eye.

It is about time traditional beliefs, norms and social institutions, alcohol and substance abuse and issues surrounding poverty are seriously challenged especially when they impose gender roles and instill fear on women and girls. These are leading causes of GBV because perpetrators believe that they own women and that women and girls are their properties and must therefore submit to them and dance to their tunes. Enough is enough, it is about time the tunes start to change.

LET US UNITE AS A NATION AND STAND AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE. LET US FREELY SPEAK AGAINST GBV AND SHAME THE PERPETRATORS.

Continue Reading

News

Setlhoko Appointed as FIFA  Women’s Football Development Expert

FIFA has announced the appointment of Ms. Tsholofelo Setlhoko as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert, joining a global network of qualified professionals dedicated to the growth and development of women’s football worldwide. This prestigious appointment recognizes Ms. Setlhoko’s exceptional contributions to the sport and her commitment to advancing women’s football across Botswana and beyond.

Launched in 2020, the FIFA Women’s Football Development Programmes have been instrumental in strengthening women’s football through targeted support for Member Associations. With the recent relaunch of the programme in December 2024, FIFA aims to expand its impact across all 211 Member Associations, offering tailored assistance that reflects the unique contexts and needs of each nation.

In her role as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert, Ms. Setlhoko will leverage her vast experience in football administration, strategic planning, and grassroots development to support Member Associations in implementing sustainable growth strategies. Her leadership within the Botswana Football Association (BFA), particularly in spearheading initiatives for women’s football, has set a benchmark for development and community engagement.

“I am deeply honored to be appointed as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert. This is not only a personal achievement but a victory for women’s football in Botswana. I look forward to sharing best practices and supporting the growth of women’s football in other Member Associations,” said Ms. Setlhoko.

The President of the Botswana Football Association, Mr. Tariq Babitseng, also expressed his pride in Ms. Setlhoko’s achievement, stating, “Tsholofelo’s appointment is a testament to her dedication and hard work. Her expertise and passion for women’s football are unmatched, and we are confident that she will make a substantial impact globally.”

Ms. Setlhoko’s appointment marks a significant step forward in the representation of African women in global football development. As she embarks on this journey, she remains committed to championing women’s football and inspiring the next generation of female athletes and administrators.

Continue Reading

Trending