BNSC communications manager, Anderson Nlisana, told MmegiSport that a stagnant grant places limitations on the BNSC's ability to undertake critical projects within its facilities. “For example, essential rapid maintenance in stadiums is required to keep them attractive to clients and compliant with international standards set by bodies such as CAF and World Athletics,” he said. Nlisana said the nominal value of the grant remains unchanged; this does not translate into an increase or decrease in real terms. He explained that at first glance, one could argue that this is positive for the commission. “However, when considered against the growing demands on allocation versus operations, it effectively represents a reduction in the budget. This is because the number of projects planned for this year exceeds those of the previous year. Several factors contribute to this challenge, including the devaluation of the currency, the introduction of new projects, particularly those related to hosting activities, and increased allocations to National Sport Associations (NSA),” he said.
Nlisana said it is important to note that some NSAs may have been promoted to higher tiers, which in turn increases their funding requirements. Some NSAs are disappointed with the P161,508.090 allocation. Some are even contemplating meeting the BNSC to query the amounts allocated to their associations. However, the Botswana Wrestling Federation (BWF) is celebrating after they received P120, 000 an increase from P50,000 from the last financial year. BWF president, Moagi Sharp, told MmegiSport they are excited about the increase because it will go a long way in developing wrestling in Botswana. He said when they first affiliated to BNSC, they were allocated P50,000; the funds increased to P250,000 during the 2020–2021 financial year. “We then placed an order for a wrestling ring, but the funds were forfeited after the sport was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our grant was then reduced to P50,000; at one point, we were allocated P35,000. We were even wondering what was happening. But now things have turned for the better, we will use P70,000 to purchase a wrestling ring and use the balance for other activities," he said.
