News

HONORING THE MARES-PRIZE MONEY AWARD CEREMONY

Aug 22, 2025

The just-ended Prize Money Award Ceremony at Lekidi Football Centre was a colorful and memorable occasion, marked by a strong spirit of celebration and pride. The Mares turned up in style, honoring the event with their presence, while the vibrant theme of African attire added flair and elegance to the gathering.

At the top of the distinguished guest list was the Assistant Minister of Health, Hon. Lawrence Ookeditse, who graced the occasion in support of women’s football. He was joined by the Deputy Permanent Secretary for Ministry of Sport & Arts, Ms. Boineelo Hardy, BNSC Chairman, Mr. Marumo Morule, leadership of the Botswana Football Association, led by the President, Mr. Oabile Thona Babitseng, together with members of his National Executive Committee, the BFA CEO, Mr. Mfolo E. Mfolo, and representatives from the Association’s different wings and structures.

Also present was The Mares title sponsor, First National Bank Botswana represented by Communications & PR Manager, Ms. Boga Chilinde Masebu, the team Head of Delegation, Mr. Keleeme Bahakgametse, Head Coach of the Mares, Mr. Alex Basimanebotlhe Malete and his team.

The event further drew the participation of the media fraternity, football administrators, and key stakeholders across sport and business, all coming together to celebrate the success and progress of the Mares.

The team was honoured with $75 000.00 from Confederation of African Football, P100 000.00 from Orange, P30 000.00 from Zambezi Motors and P15 000.00 from Concorde. Each player walked away with a total of P33 000.00 and technical team members walked away with P15 000.00 each. The BFA President also appreciated Lucara Botswana for supporting the teams preparations with P900 000.00.

The gathering not only honoured the team’s achievements but also reflected the unity and collective commitment of partners, supporters, and leaders who continue to drive the growth of women’s football in Botswana. It was a day filled with joy, pride, and inspiration, a true testament to the beautiful game’s power to bring people together.

With O3 Beverages FNB Botswana Lucara Botswana Botswana National Sport Commission Orange Zambezi Motors BW

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BOTSWANA U-20 WOMEN EXIT WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS WITH PRIDE AFTER HOME VICTORY

The Botswana U-20 Women’s National Team bowed out of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2026 on a positive note after securing a 1–0 victory over Cameroon U-20 Women’s National Team this past weekend, despite a 5–1 aggregate defeat.

Having suffered a heavy 5–0 loss in the first leg played on 7 February 2026 at Olembe Stadium in Cameroon, the Young Mares showed resilience and determination in the return leg at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium.

Forward Mbapeua Hangara scored the decisive goal in the second half, giving Botswana a deserved win in front of their home supporters and demonstrating the team’s fighting spirit until the final whistle.

Head coach Tapaphiwa Tracey Gaebolae expressed pride in her players performance and attitude, emphasizing the positive response after the first-leg setback.

“We are very proud of the girls. Even though we didn’t get the result we wanted in Cameroon, we came here with a positive mindset. The message to the team was that we needed to score more goals, stay organized, and believe in ourselves and I think the players responded very well.” Coach Gaebolae alluded at the post match Technical press conference.

Despite exiting the competition, the Young Mares leave the qualifiers with valuable international experience and renewed confidence, highlighting the growth and potential of women’s football in Botswana.