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Minister Rakgare lauds the appointment of BFA female CEO, Taylor

May 20, 2021

The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports, and Culture Development (MYSC), Tumiso Rakgare has become the latest figure to commend the Botswana Football Association (BFA) for appointing a woman Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Goabaone G. Taylor at the helm of the Botswana FA.

Rakgare made the remarks yesterday (Wednesday) when a delegation from the FA, led by Maclean Letshwiti, President of the BFA paid a courtesy visit to him at the MYSC Headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana.

Rakgare expressed his unwavering support and delight for the stern leadership the BFA has shown towards the empowerment of women in football by making history in appointing Taylor as the first female C.E.O.

Armed with more than 20 years of corporate and commercial professional experience, and a distinguished track record of identifying the uniqueness of brands, accentuating their appeal, taking them to market, and maximizing their value, Taylor brings a unique set of skills, perspectives, and relationships to lead the BFA into the future.

She presented her decorated resume to Honourable Rakgare who could only nod in consonant. Yesterday’s engagement also saw the BFA using the opportunity to gain the ministry and government’s buy in regarding their quest to return to play as soon as possible.

Minister Rakgare admiring the new Zebras replica, presented by the BFA President Letshwiti

Taylor had accompanied BFA president, Maclean Letshwiti and BFA Vice President 1, Marshlow Motlogelwa in an endeavor to gain buy in from government to allow football to return to play.

Honourable Rakgare said the appointment of the BFA CEO comes at the right time where football is dominated by men in many disciplines such as players, coaches, and administrators among others, adding that a change in the status quo needed to be imposed.

“Many governments and countries are encouraging women leadership in various positions including sports particularly football, hence the appointment has placed the BFA and government in the limelight of a new dawn, we must seize this opportunity and excel more. However, I can assure you that football has many challenges and there will be challenges ahead, please be prepared, be brazen and execute your tasks well. The BFA has in the past experienced lack of good governance and I am hopeful that with your background from the corporate world, your expertise will come in abundance for the FA and help it to commercialize and become professional. Football is a huge industry and it’s also multi-dimensional. You have our full support,” added Rakgare.

BFA CEO, Goabaone Taylor

The minister further assured Taylor that his government through the Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC) will continue to fund the FA including any other support they may require.

Minister Rakgare was happy that Taylor’s background will help speed up the commercialization of the BFA thus making it to be self-sufficient and less dependent on government.

Furthermore, Honourable Rakgare assured the BFA that he is working around the clock with his team at the ministry to gain buy in from government to return to play as football has a way to unite people and is the most followed recreation in the country, which often encourages unanimity.

“I therefore urge you to work closely with the BFA NEC and the secretariat to bring positive results to all football fans,” concluded Honourable Rakgare.

As a parting shot, the minister also cautioned the new CEO to avoid indulging in the politics of football as they often delay progress of the game.

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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.