The new requirements, contained in BFA Circular No. 30 of 2026, released to clubs last week, require local Premier League head coaches to possess a minimum of CAF A Licence. On the other hand, it stipulates thatt foreign coaches must hold CAF Pro Licences as part of the club licensing process. The move marks a significant departure from the BFA's 2023 Club Licencing Regulations, which required local Premier League head coaches to hold a minimum CAF B Licence and foreign coaches a CAF A Licence.The changes have raised questions about their impact on coaches currently employed by clubs, particularly given the timing of the implementation.Amongst local coaches who could be affected are Township Rollers' highly-rated young tactician Oarabile Seabo and Morupule Wanderers coach Pontsho Moloi, who both hold CAF B Licences.Seabo is, however, in class for a CAF A coaching course.The regulations also place the spotlight on expatriate coaches. Orapa United's Zimbabwean coach Elias Chinyemba, Extension Gunners' Paradzayi Madivenga, and Nico United's Zambian tactician Reuben Njavera Chikoti are all understood to possess CAF A Licences.Former Matebele FC coach, Reneilwe Letsholonyane of South Africa, who has been linked with Jwaneng Galaxy, is also believed to hold a CAF A Licence.The latest requirements stipulate that foreign coaches must possess Pro Licences, raising questions over whether CAF A holders will satisfy the new threshold.Amongst those appearing to be on safe ground are BDF XI coach Mogomotsi Mpote, who holds a CAF A Licence, whilst Mochudi Centre Chiefs coach Miguel Corral Torreira possesses a UEFA Pro Licence.League-winning coach Sean Connor of Ireland is also understood to hold top-level coaching qualifications.Whilst the BFA's objective is to improve standards and professionalise football, the changes have reignited debate over whether clubs and coaches have been given enough time to prepare.The 2023 regulations introduced a phased implementation plan aimed at gradually improving standards across the domestic game. However, the latest circular effectively requires compliance before the start of the 2026–2027 season, potentially accelerating the timeline many clubs had anticipated.The issue also raises concerns about access to coaching development opportunities. Several coaches have built successful careers in local football despite not holding CAF A qualifications, leading to questions over whether enough opportunities have been made available for coaches to upgrade their badges.For clubs, the challenge may now extend beyond results on the field. Coaches who have guided teams to trophies and strong league campaigns could find their future determined as much by qualifications as by performances.At the time of publication, BFA acting chief executive officer Kago Mosinyi had not responded to MmegiSport enquiry.
