When Tariq Babitseng stepped into football administration, he brought with him a strong track record of leadership. A shrewd businessman from Molepolole, his path has been defined by resilience, vision, and a deep commitment to both football and enterprise. Now, as he assumes a new role as a co-opted member of the COSAFA Executive Committee, Babitseng sees the appointment not only as a personal milestone but as a triumph for Botswana football.
Growing up in Molepolole, Babitseng developed a love for football alongside a budding entrepreneurial spirit. Over the years, he has built and managed successful businesses across Botswana, South Africa, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with plans to expand further on the continent. Despite his business success, his heart has always remained with the beautiful game.
โBeing co-opted into the COSAFA Executive Committee is a profound honor and a testament to the dedication and hard work we have put into advancing football in Botswana,โ said Babitseng. โPersonally, itโs a moment of pride and humility, knowing that my peers recognize the progress we are making as a nation in the football space. This recognition is not just about meโit represents the collective efforts of everyone at the Botswana Football Association and the unwavering support from our football community.โ
For Babitseng, football administration and business are not separate worlds. He approaches both with a long-term view grounded in sustainability, a perspective he believes will benefit his work within COSAFA. With his appointment, he hopes to build stronger partnerships and unlock resources that can elevate local clubs and players.
โThis appointment opens up invaluable opportunities to strengthen Botswana football at multiple levels,โ he said.
A key priority is grassroots development. Babitseng believes that just as successful businesses require a strong foundation, so too does football. He plans to champion youth development initiatives and regional collaborations aimed at nurturing young talent. โBeing part of COSAFA means that Botswana can have a stronger voice in decision-making processes, influencing policies that directly benefit our leagues, clubs, and players,โ he said.
His leadership style is shaped by his rootsโcommunity-oriented and inclusive. He speaks with conviction about the need to integrate academic education into football training to ensure young athletes grow into well-rounded individuals. โBotswana has a unique football culture rooted in resilience and community involvement,โ he said. โI plan to share insights on how grassroots community engagement can be a foundation for sustainable football development.โ
Womenโs football is also high on his agenda. Drawing from his business experience, Babitseng understands the value of diversity and sees great potential in the womenโs game. โI will advocate for enhanced support for womenโs football, drawing from our local initiatives that have shown promise,โ he said.
Mentorship is central to Babitsengโs philosophy. He acknowledges the mentors who shaped his path and hopes to play a similar role for future football leaders. โI have always been inspired by the resilience of our players, coaches and administrators, who continue to push forward despite challenges,โ he said. โThis new role reflects my commitment to honoring their legacy while forging new paths for future generations. Itโs about keeping the spirit of perseverance alive while embracing innovation.โ
As he takes on his COSAFA responsibilities, Babitsengโs goal is to help build a football ecosystem rooted in collaboration, professionalism and long-term growth. He is eager to exchange best practices with other COSAFA member associations and to strengthen capacity building for coaches and administrators.
โI will seek to build partnerships to increase our competitive experience and focus on capacity building for our coaches and administrators,โ he said. โThis role gives us the platform to be at the forefront of football innovation and development in Southern Africa.โ
To the fans, Babitseng expressed gratitude and resolve. โTo our passionate supporters, I want to say that this achievement belongs to all of us. Your unwavering support and commitment to our teams have laid the foundation for this moment. I promise to represent our nation with integrity, always prioritizing the growth of Botswana football.โ
