BFL reports no betting violations amidst boom
Mqondisi Dube | Monday November 9, 2026 06:00
In 2025, the BFL developed a betting policy which all stakeholders are expected to abide by. The organisation's acting chief executive officer, Idah Moinisi, revealed that it had recorded zero cases of non-compliance since the document was adopted.
'We have not received any reports, even informally,' Moinisi said in an interview this week.
She said the league holds periodic meetings with clubs where compliance issues, including betting, are discussed.
'We conduct annual engagements with clubs during which compliance matters and issues affecting the integrity of the league are addressed. We also engage with the BFA Referees Department periodically to reinforce the importance of match integrity, professional conduct and adherence to the relevant regulations,' she said.
The 2025 betting policy, signed by BFL chairperson Sipho Showa and Moinisi, applies to, amongst others, BFL staff, club owners, executives, match officials, players, medical teams, and media and public relations officers with access to inside information.
'All covered individuals are strictly prohibited from placing, facilitating, or encouraging wagers (directly or through third parties) on any BFL match, event, or competition,' reads the policy, which came into effect on August 1, 2025.
The policy also prohibits covered individuals from attempting to fix or influence the outcome of matches or disclosing confidential information, including non-public details that could be used for betting purposes. Such information includes team strategies, injuries, and player selection.
However, beyond its annual compliance engagements with clubs, it remains unclear what specific mechanisms the BFL has in place to monitor and detect potential violations.
The policy also prohibits third-party betting, whereby individuals use friends or relatives to place wagers on their behalf. The promotion of betting is equally prohibited.
However, covered individuals may place bets on events outside BFL-organised competitions, provided there is no potential conflict of interest. The policy urges clubs and the BFL office to actively monitor signs of betting misconduct.
'Suspected breaches must be reported immediately to the BFL or the respective Club Compliance Officer,' the policy states.
Those found guilty of violating the policy face sanctions ranging from suspension from the league and a fine equivalent to one month's salary to termination of employment or a permanent ban from participating in football activities.
Botswana has experienced a sharp rise in sports betting in recent years, fuelled by the growing number of licensed operators and the expansion of online betting platforms.