Francistown brace for Botswana Games
Lindiwe Mozola | Wednesday June 24, 2015 14:00
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Youth Sports and Culture, Thapelo Olopeng said it was critical to host games of this magnitude at different locations across the country.
“This will not only showcase local talent to Botswana at large, but will also improve ownership and support our athletes,” he said.
The Minister noted that the success of the games hinges on close cooperation and collaboration between all the stakeholders involved.
Olopeng urged the corporate sector to come on board and support local teams in the different districts. “I therefore urge corporate players to brand teams from their respective districts.
There is no better corporate social investment than investing in the young people in your locality,” he said.
He said they have put all the structures in place consistent with major games such as a games patron, the organising committees, logo, and branding and a volunteer programme.
Bobby Gaseitsiwe is the committee chairperson, while Steady Basupang is the head of protocol and ceremonies. Kabelo Mmono is the head of Finance and Modiri Ontifile will take charge of the marketing and communications. Tati River Lodge managing director, Abel Khupe is the patron. Khupe promised the games would be a success.
He noted that there is no greater benefit to a city than the pride and goodwill that come with hosting sporting events.
In addition, there would also be economic benefits accruing from publicity, procurement of the games and the purchasing power of the over 4 000 participants expected at the event.
“I have no doubt that the Francistown community will work with me, and the team at large to ensure successful delivery of the games,” he said.
Khupe urged other business entities and the private sector to play a key role towards the success of the games by supporting the athletes through sponsorship and branding.