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BFA referees to fly the flag at COSAFA 2021

Jun 23, 2021

GABORONE, Botswana – The Botswana Football Association (BFA) refereeing duo of Keabetswe Dintwa and Lucky Kegakolotswe will join their counterparts from across the region by officiating at this year’s historic 20th COSAFA Cup edition. The region’s football showpiece runs from July 7th – 18th 2021 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, South Africa. Dintwa is a referee based in Francistown while Kegakolotswe is an assistant referee based in Palapye.

The two are said to have impressed the referees’ panel during last year’s (2020) COSAFA Under-20 Challenge tournament, where their mettle and refereeing prowess shined. “This will be their first time to officiate in the COSAFA Cup senior challenge and that means they did well in the junior tournament previously. We are happy with their progression, normally you have to prove your mettle in the junior tournament before being entrusted with the senior tournament of COSAFA”, said BFA Referees Manager, Phodiso Rasetshoga when reacting to the exciting news today.

The duo will depart to South Africa on July 1, 2021, where they will join other referees from across the region, before undergoing a pre-tournament course led by COSAFA instructors. The 12-team tournament returns after the 2020 edition had to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Botswana senior national team, Zebras has been drawn against South Africa, eSwatini and Lesotho in Group A as preparations for the historic 20th edition of the regional showpiece competition kick into gear. In Group B is Zambia, Malawi, Madagascar, Comoros while Senegal, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Namibia all form part of Group C.

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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.