News

BFA is ready to resume play

Jun 11, 2021

GABORONE, Botswana – The Botswana Football Association (BFA) this afternoon (Friday) hosted a virtual media briefing where it presented its readiness to return to the pitch.

The media briefing which was hosted at Lekidi Football Centre in Gaborone was led by the BFA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Goabaone G. Taylor and her team of experts; amongst them Head of Competitions, Setete Phuthego, Medical team, Dr. Lone Bagwasi, BFA Legal eagle, Pako Moakofhi as well as Botswana Football League (BFL) CEO, Solomon Ramochotlhwane.

Subsequent to today’s media briefing, the BFL is also expected to roll out their plan to the media next week Tuesday.

BFA PRO Tumo Mpatane directing the media briefing

Today’s media session follows the recent publication by the Botswana Government allowing for the resumption of competitive sports after a lull due to the outbreak of COVID-19.

In her remarks, Taylor emphasized that the BFA is ready and raring to return to play, adding that the secretariat has adopted a phased approach where all the BFA structures will be capacitated to speak one language of hygiene, prevention, and prompt recognition.

Botswana Football League (BFL) CEO, Solomon Ramochotlhwane.

The BFA Return to Play roll-out plan will commence with training sessions by national teams and BFL teams subject to authorization by the Medical Committee from June 14, 2021. However, friendly matches and pre-season tournaments will not be allowed at this phase.

BFA is desirous of hosting pre season tournaments but these will be subject to negotiations with sponsors to agree the roll out plan . The 2021/22 season has been declared to start from August 28, 2021 – May 29th, 2022. The BFA indicated that there will be continuous monitoring and evaluation at each phase to ensure compliance.

Still under the first phase, Taylor said from June 28, 2021, all First Division leagues, RFA, Women Football will be allowed to resume training. The period, according to the BFA will allow for training of SHE Officers and to allow Regional Leadership to inspect the resources that the clubs have and to check compliance.

BFA Legal eagle, Pako Moakofhi

“We are happy for the recent announcement allowing for competitive sports, particularly football to resume play. The BFA is ready, and all our 17 regions are going to be trained effective 24 June to 3rd July to align accordingly with our Return to play plan. During this time, there will also be an appointment and training of compliance officers,” said Taylor adding that teams are further expected to equip themselves with screening points.

She noted that pre-competition medical assessment of not more than 2-weeks prior to competitive football will be compulsory.

One of the journalists, Tshepo Molwane fielding questions to the BFA CEO, Taylor

“A 4-6week preparatory training phase is critical ahead of the start of competitive sport. In the 1st 2 weeks, divided training sessions are highly recommended, with teams divided in to four groups of 8 people. Also, ahead of match day, stadiums should be disinfected and fumigated. No spectators will be allowed at stadiums and training grounds,” said Taylor.

The CEO stressed that the host team shall be responsible for all logistics, and where a player or official is infected, all public health protocols will be followed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

BFA CEO Taylor (centre) addressing the media

Furthermore, Taylor cautioned that any team which fails to meet the minimum set requirements shall not be allowed to resume play.

“CAF and FIFA guidelines to be followed should there be ambiguity and costs to be split between BFA and the teams,” she added.

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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.