27 Jun 2023

First Lady, Neo Masisi has pleaded with the business community to emulate Diamond Trading Company Botswana (DTCB) and assist in the development of women’s football.

In an interview after watching the DTCB women championships playoffs, Masisi said there was a need for the business community to help, especially in hard to reach areas in order to lure the masses to participate in football.

“I urge sponsors to also cover areas that are marginalised and disadvantaged to sponsor sport in Botswana, particularly those that are geared towards the girl child,” she said.

She said football was once only played by males, adding that after watching a game between Gaborone United and Royal Fighters, it was evident that just like their male counterparts, the girls display quality game of soccer.

“I therefore encourage other girls to take sport seriously. 

We understand that some people may not be academically gifted, but they may excel in sport,” she said

Masisi said it was imperative that the girls focus on sport, but not neglect education.

The DTCB chief financial officer, Pinkie Mothopeng-Makepe said it was her company’s second year sponsoring the tournament, observing that it showed growth given that it was now played in a different format, where every block would send a representative after playing in a mini tournament.

“We are also happy with the Botswana Football Association for the initiative they are taking to encourage mass participation of women’s football,” she said.

Mothopeng-Makepe said next year it would be the last leg of their sponsorship, given that they had signed a three-year deal. 

“We will continue to look for gaps and opportunities to improve on next year,” she said.

Meanwhile, Gaborone United have qualified to the finals that will be played at the National Stadium on July 8-9. ENDs