Last-minute race to raise funds for CUCSA Games
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday June 26, 2026 10:49
At the moment, the event has received P500,000 from Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC), whilst BOTESSA has committed P250,000 towards the event, Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL) has contributed P100,000, and P20,000 from Khumo Properties. BOTESSA president, Keorapetse Setlhare, told MmegiSport that hosting an event of such magnitude requires significant financial and material resources. He said they are racing against the clock to secure more funding before the games kick off.
“We are grateful for the support received thus far and remain optimistic that additional sponsors will come on board, even at this stage, to assist in delivering memorable games. “Preparations are progressing well, and we are now in the final operational phase. Accommodation arrangements are complete, with the University of Botswana (UB) serving as the athletes' village,” he revealed. Setlhare said hosting an event after the successful Debswana World Athletics Relays comes with pressure because the nation has high expectations. He added that the relays demonstrated Botswana’s capability to host international sporting events, and the local organising committee is motivated to deliver a Games experience that reflects the same standard of excellence.
According to Setlhare, competition venues have been inspected and are ready for action. However, he noted that although venue inspections have been done, the plan is to conduct a final inspection to avoid any surprises, and also focus on arrivals, and ensure that all departments are synchronised ahead of the games. “The hosting of CUCSA Games rotates amongst member countries within Region 5. During the 2024 CUCSA Games in Pretoria, South Africa, Botswana was officially announced as host of the 22nd edition,” he said. “Since then, BOTESSA has been working with stakeholders and partners to prepare for the event and ensure a successful hosting experience. Like many major sporting events, resource limitations have presented difficulties.” Setlhare said the games will be held at different venues, with Royal Aria hosting volleyball and basketball, whilst football will be at Lekidi grounds.
The Botswana Netball Association (BONA) courts will stage netball with table tennis at Botho University, whilst the UB stadium will be the battleground for athletics. Tennis competitions will be played at Notwane courts. The regional student athletes showpiece has attracted competitors from 10 Southern African countries, namely the hosts Botswana, Angola, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The teams will compete in football, basketball, chess, netball, table tennis, volleyball, and tennis. South Africa won the 21st CUCSA Region 5 Games held in Tshwane in 2024, finishing with a total of 58 medals. As hosts, South Africa secured 28 gold medals to dominate the competition, followed by Botswana in second place and Zimbabwe in third.