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Botswana and Algeria Strengthen Sports Ties, with Football Development in Focus

Mar 27, 2025

Francistown, Botswana – The Honourable Minister of Sport & Arts, Mr. Jacob Kelebeng, recently welcomed a courtesy visit from Honourable Walid Sadi, Algeria’s Minister of Youth & Sports, along with His Excellency Ambassador Abdelmalek Tigharhar of Algeria.

The discussions centered on fostering collaboration between the two nations in sports development, with particular emphasis on Paralympics, football, boxing, and athletics. This engagement presents valuable opportunities for Botswana to benefit from Algeria’s advanced sporting infrastructure, training programs, and technical expertise.

As part of the visit, Honourable Sadi also met with BFA President Mr. Tariq Babitseng, alongside Minister Kelebeng. Discussions highlighted Algeria’s well-established football development structures, coaching programs, and talent identification pathways, which could serve as a benchmark for Botswana’s football growth strategy.

BFA President Emphasizes Football Development

Speaking on the significance of the engagement, BFA President Mr. Tariq Babitseng expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that Botswana stands to gain valuable insights from Algeria’s football model.

“Football development remains a key priority for the BFA, and this engagement allows us to benchmark against one of Africa’s leading football nations. Algeria’s structured approach to grassroots football, coaching development, and high-performance training presents a great learning opportunity for Botswana. We are excited about the potential collaborations that will enhance our football structures and elevate the sport in the country,” said Babitseng.

The Minister was accompanied by Permanent Secretary Ms. Nancy Chengeta of the Ministry of Sport & Arts (MOSA), along with key sports leadership figures, including:

✅ BNSC Chairperson: Mr. Marumo Morule

✅ BNSC CEO: Mr. Tuelo D. Serufho

✅ BNSC Executive Management

✅ Botswana Football Association (BFA) Executives

✅ Various dignitaries and stakeholders

The BFA remains committed to building strategic international partnerships that contribute to the growth, professionalization, and long-term sustainability of football in Botswana.

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MS. TSHOLOFELO 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.