Debswana’s financial contributions have enabled organisation and execution of numerous sporting events across the nation. From athletics, football and boxing to the Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC), the leading diamond miner’s sponsorships have reached a wide range of sporting disciplines, making a tangible difference in the lives of athletes and sports enthusiasts alike.
DEBSWANA PUMPS P9 MILLION INTO BAA
One of the most notable contributions of Debswana has been its partnership with the Botswana Athletics Association (BAA). The mining company last year (2022) announced a P9 million sponsorship for BAA which runs for a period of three years, from 2022 to 2024, with the organisation set to receive P3 million annually.
The company’s sponsorship has not only allowed BAA to organise high-profile competitions but has also facilitated participation of Botswana’s athletes in international events. As a result, Botswana’s athletics scene has experienced unprecedented growth, with athletes consistently achieving commendable results on the global stage.
DEBSWANA INJECTS MILLIONS INTO FOOTBALL
In addition to athletics, Debswana has extended its support to other sports, including football. The company’s sponsorship has greatly enhanced the Botswana Football Association’s (BFA) capacity to run leagues, organise tournaments and develop grassroots programmes.
Early at the beginning of this year, it was announced that Debswana had renewed its sponsorship of the Botswana National First Division League (NFDL) for the 2022/2023 season, which commenced in October 2022 and is scheduled to end in June 2023. This is after the mining company agreed to extend support to the league for the current season to the tune of P3.9 million.
Debswana’s contributions have been instrumental in fostering inclusivity and gender equality in football. The company has actively supported women’s football initiatives, recognising the importance of empowering female footballers and providing them with opportunities. This commitment has resulted in the rise of successful women footballers in Botswana, inspiring a new generation of aspiring sportswomen. Through its Jwaneng Mine, Debswana recently sponsored the Southern Football Region Association (SOFRA) with P900 000, which was channelled into women football development in the region. The funds will cover three seasons with the region receiving P300 000 each year.
Moreover, through its Jwaneng and Orapa Mines, Debswana also supported the BFA by taking care of the camping needs of the senior women’s national team prior to the 2022 Morocco Women AFCON. The patriotic gesture came at a critical time when The Mares needed intensive training and resources to prepare for the continental showpiece.
DEBSWANA SPONSORS BOXING AWARDS
Debswana last month brought a sense of pride to Botswana Boxing Association (BoBA) after sponsoring its awards with P412 000. Debswana’s relationship with BoBA started in 2010 and continues to grow as the mining giant will once again headline the 2023 edition of the BoBA Awards. Debswana has increased the sponsorship to P412 000 from the P250 000 provided in the previous awards and considerably from the initial P50 000 in 2010 when the partnership began. The awards ceremony will be held on 27 May 2023.
DEBSWANA POURS P6 MILLION INTO RE BA BONA HA
Last year Debswana announced a P6 million sponsorship for the Re Ba Bona Ha sports development programme that is spread over a three-year period, from 2022 to 2024, in tranches of P2 million per year. Through this Debswana continued to choose the least preferred path of supporting grassroots development. The country’s leading mining company has been doing this for the past 12 years.
OTHER FORMS OF SUPPORT
Beyond direct financial support, Debswana has also played a pivotal role in raising awareness about the importance of sports in Botswana’s social fabric. The company’s sponsorship campaigns have been aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles, teamwork and community engagement. By organising outreach programmes and sports clinics, Debswana has encouraged active participation in sports and created a sense of pride and unity among the people of Botswana.
As Botswana’s sports landscape continues to evolve, Debswana remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting and nurturing talent. With its visionary approach and sustained investment, the leading diamond mining company has become an invaluable partner in driving the development of sports in Botswana.
Looking ahead, the future of Botswana sports appears bright, thanks in large part to Debswana’s enduring support. As the company continues to prioritise the nation’s growth of sports, it is poised to make an even greater impact, fostering a generation of accomplished athletes and a thriving sporting ecosystem in the years to come.
