Volunteers' movement spreads wings

FREDERICK KEBADIRETSE
Staff Writer | Wednesday August 15, 2012 00:00

According to the SVM spokesperson, Thabo Osekeng, Botswana's recent good performances in sport on the international stage has made everyone want to be involved, hence the expansion of the movement. Osekeng hailed various community leaders for the support they have offered the movement by encouraging volunteers to register. The movement was launched in Molepolole on Saturday marking the sixth destination of countrywide launches that started in May this year.

It has already been launched in Selebi-Phikwe, Francistown, Gaborone, Serowe, Maun, and Tsabong. The next and final launch will be done in Lobatse at a date to be determined. 'People have been coming in impressive numbers to register with us wherever we are launching. We just want to promote the spirit of volunteerism in sports because sport cannot go anywhere without volunteers,' Osekeng said.  He said what is important is for volunteers to understand what they are in for, as they have to volunteer their time and skills. He said volunteers should get into their task wholeheartedly with passion for their activity rather than expecting cash incentives. He said everyone could be a volunteer regardless of expertise or calling.

Osekeng said their objective is to have a great pool of volunteers spread all over the country so they can assist in any sporting activity in their respective regions. He cited the Steinmetz Gaborone City Marathon where they assigned volunteers to assist in many logistical areas, officiating and medical assistance. He said they are not only looking at Botswana residents but everyone, including the outsiders, is free to join.  The movement has a Facebook page and a link on the Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) website that enables online registration. Osekeng added that volunteers would be needed in large numbers as Botswana fights to host international competitions like the 2014 Africa Youth Games for which the country recently submitted a bid.