The games which attracted controversy the last time they were held at the University of Botswana (UB), are held under the theme 'Maintaining Friendship Through Sports.' The games between universities of NUL, Swaziland and Botswana could not take place last academic year, which led to much speculation that the games had been permanently cancelled. UB has traditionally dominated the games. Although UB Sports and Recreation Manager, Raj Rathedi acknowledged that it is not healthy for a competition to always have the same winner, he dismissed reports that UB had wanted to pull out. He said they are also happy that their counterparts have improved and believe there will be some fierce competition.
Rathedi added that Lesotho decried lack of funds to host the games, which is why they were not held. The NUL also had a student strike so they decided to use the short vacation in which the games are normally held to cover for the lost study time.The games are hosted on a rotational basis among the three universities. Rathedi and his deputy, Nelson Bodilenyane said their teams are ready to compete in the codes, including basketball, soccer, netball, and volleyball. Some codes like boxing and karate have been excluded. Rathedi said apart from lack of funds, some codes not common among all universities. He said availability of sporting facilities at the hosting university is also a factor considered. UB is expected to take about 150 athletes to the games. Meanwhile, the team left Friday to take part in the games.
