‘International Tennis Tournaments Drive Economic Growth’- Thipe

When the current executive committee of the Botswana Tennis Association (BTA) took charge a few years ago (in 2023, to be precise), one of their boldest goals was to make Botswana a recognised name in global tennis. Back then, international tournaments on local soil were rare and small in scale. But today, that picture has changed dramatically.

Under the leadership of BTA president Oaitse Thipe, Botswana now hosts close to 10 weeks of international tennis competitions every year. From the Davis Cup to junior international events, the country has quietly become a hub of global tennis activity.

“We had a clear vision,” Thipe told this publication in an interview. “When we assumed leadership, Botswana was hosting very few international events. But we wanted to change that. We wanted to bring the world to our courts — not just for sport, but to build something much bigger.”

That “something bigger” is starting to take shape. The Davis Cup Africa Group V tournament, set for July 23–26 in Gaborone, is just one example. This prestigious team event will see nations battling it out not only for pride but also for promotion to a higher tier of the global tennis structure.

But for Thipe, it’s not just about the action on the court.

“This tournament alone will bring in over 80 local workers,” he said. “From logistics and hospitality to technical support and admin, it’s a full ecosystem. We estimate the event will inject around P3 million into the local economy. That’s money going to hotels, food services, transport operators, and small businesses. It’s direct impact.”

From Courts to Communities

For Thipe and his team, the real victory lies beyond trophies and medals. It’s in the lives changed, the jobs created, and the inspiration sparked among Botswana’s youth.

“Look, tennis may not be the biggest sport in the country, but we are showing it has the power to transform lives,” he said. “Every time we host an international tournament, we open doors for our young people — not just to dream of becoming athletes, but to be part of a bigger machine that includes event management, media, coaching, and business.”

Indeed, the ripple effect of hosting international competitions is being felt in unexpected places. The increased foot traffic supports local restaurants, taxi drivers, and informal traders. Volunteers who work at the events gain experience that can launch careers. And for aspiring tennis players, it’s a front-row seat to a world they might have only seen on TV.

Rallying the Sponsors

Still, turning vision into reality hasn’t been easy. While BTA has made major strides, Thipe is quick to point out that success depends on strong partnerships, especially with sponsors.

“Hosting events of this size is expensive,” he said. “Yes, we are doing the groundwork, but we need support — financial, logistical, and moral. Right now, we are calling on corporates, parastatals, and individuals to come on board, especially for the Davis Cup.”

He explained that critical areas like accommodation, transport, branding, and volunteer support are still underfunded. “We’re not asking for handouts,” he said. “We’re offering a real opportunity. Your brand can be seen across Africa and beyond. This is an investment in Botswana’s image, our youth, and our economy.”

Thipe believes that supporting tennis is not just corporate social responsibility — it’s smart business.

“Sports tourism is growing. People travel with teams, families, and officials. They spend money. They talk about their experiences. Botswana must be part of that global conversation,” he said.

A Tennis Calendar That Means Business

Beyond the Davis Cup, Botswana is gearing up to host several other international tournaments in the coming months. These include the ITF World Tennis Tour Junior events such as the J30 and J60, where young players from across the globe compete for world rankings.

“These events are just as important,” Thipe said. “They might not have the same spotlight as the Davis Cup, but they develop future stars — and they keep the economic benefits flowing.”

With more events on the horizon, BTA is now working on building long-term capacity. That includes improving facilities, training more local coaches and officials, and lobbying for government support.

“We’re not stopping here,” Thipe said. “We’re building something sustainable. Hosting international competitions in Botswana is no longer a dream — it’s a growing reality.”

A Shared Responsibility

For all the progress, Thipe believes the future of tennis — and sport in general — cannot rest on the shoulders of BTA alone.

“This is a national project,” he said. “We need everyone. The private sector. Government. Media. Communities. If we all buy into the vision, we can make Botswana a respected sporting nation.”

He paused, then added, “Let’s work together — for sport, for youth, and for our economy. The Davis Cup is just the beginning.”