The inaugural HSNV-sponsored Tati River Pre-Season Tournament will take place in Francistown on August 8, with organisers positioning the event as both a platform for clubs to prepare for the new season and a catalyst for economic activity in the northern city.
The one-day tournament, to be hosted at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium, will feature newly promoted TonotaFC, Tafic FC, Township Rollers and Zambian giants Nkana FC.
Speaking at the tournament launch, HSNV Managing Director Boikhutso Ramahobo said the sponsorship reflects the company’s commitment to community development and its belief in sport as a driver of social and economic impact.
“As a company based in Francistown, we see the north as our home, and investing in local sport is a natural extension of our corporate responsibility efforts,” Ramahobo said.
He said the tournament is expected to generate benefits beyond the football pitch by attracting visitors and creating opportunities for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport operators, artists and small enterprises.
“A major football event has a ripple effect across the local economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, artists and small businesses that stand to gain from the influx of supporters,” he said.
Ramahobo added that the participation of Nkana FC would enhance the competitiveness of the tournament while giving local players exposure to different playing styles ahead of the Botswana Premier League season.
He said discussions with additional partners and sponsors were ongoing, with organisers expected to announce the final prize package before the tournament.
Francistown Regional Football Association chairperson Carlos Motaung welcomed the initiative, describing it as an important step towards increasing football activity in the city.
He said the association viewed the tournament as part of broader efforts to position Francistown as a regular host of major football events, adding that other competitions, including the Mayor’s Cup, were also being planned.
Francistown Mayor Thatayaone Majere said the tournament demonstrates the growing role of sport in stimulating local economic development.
He said events of this nature have the potential to attract visitors, support businesses and strengthen Francistown’s reputation as a sporting destination.
The tournament also highlights the expanding role of private sector investment in football development, with sponsorships increasingly providing benefits beyond participating clubs to surrounding communities.
Organisers expect supporters from across Botswana and neighbouring Zambia to attend the event, creating additional demand for accommodation, food services, transport and other local businesses.
If successful, the HSNV-sponsored Tati River Pre-Season Tournament could become an annual fixture, strengthening Francistown’s position as a destination for major sporting events while demonstrating the wider economic value of investment in sport.
