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BFA Awards 2023 – Director of Member Associations Ms. Sarah Mukuna Speech

Oct 10, 2023

Good evening

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, and members of the football family of Botswana, I am truly honoured to stand before you on behalf CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe at this glamorous

Botswana Football Awards, celebrating not just the achievements of our athletes and officials but also the indomitable spirit that unites us all.

Today, I want to talk about three key elements that resonate deeply with the African youth and draw a unique connection to Botswana’s football identity – Unity, Perseverance, and Hope. These are all

embodied by the precious gems that are diamonds.

I was told that Botswana, often referred to as the “Land of Diamonds,” holds a unique place in the heart of Africa. These diamonds are more than just stones; they are symbols of resilience,

transformation, and brilliance. They mirror excellency, the journey of our youth and the football nation itself.

UNITY:

In a world often marked by division and discord, Botswana football stands today as a shining example

of unity. Just as diamonds are formed under immense pressure, unity in diversity is what strengthens our youth and athletes. Our athletes and officials representing various backgrounds and experiences, have come together today to form a formidable force in the world of football. Together, they showcase the power of unity, reminding us that when we stand together, we truly outshine.

PERSEVERANCE:

Diamonds are born from adversity, just like the perseverance that defines our African athletes. They

face countless challenges on their path to success – obstacles that may seem insurmountable. Yet, they

persist, they train harder, and they push boundaries. This spirit of perseverance has not only brought

them to this remarkable event but has also earned them admiration and respect on the global stage.

HOPE:

Botswana’s diamonds symbolize hope for a brighter future, and so do our young athletes. They are the

hope of this nation, the driving force that propels us forward. In their dreams and aspirations, we see

the promise of a prosperous Botswana. Let us never forget that every kick, every goal, and every victory

carries with it the hope of a football nation that believes in the potential of its youth.

As the Director Member Associations of the Confederation of African Football, I am proud to witness the unity, perseverance, and hope that define African youth on full display here tonight.

As Tariq Ramadan says, behind every great man is not a woman, for she is beside him, she is with him

and not behind him. This I can say about BFA and CAF … We stand together side by side working for

the swift prosperity of African and Botswana Football.

Thank you to BFA President M. Letshwiti and his administration for organising such a great event for Botswana and her people.

Together, we are not just celebrating athletic achievements but also fostering a sense of purpose and pride in our athletes.

In closing, let us remember that diamonds are not just beautiful because of their outward brilliance but because of the incredible journey they undertake to become that way. Similarly, our footballer and officials are not just remarkable because of their talents but because of the resilience, unity, and hope that drive them.

So, let us continue to support and nurture our young athletes, for they are the diamonds of Botswana, and together, they will shine brightly and inspire generations to come.

Thank you, and let continue celebrating our footballers who are receiving awards this evening.

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

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.