The stage is set for the 3rd edition of the Vunani Annual Botswana Women Sports Awards, scheduled for March 22, 2025, in Gaborone. Organised by Inside BW Women Sports in partnership with Vunani Fund Managers, this prestigious event will honor the country’s most outstanding female athletes and sports administrators.
Kesego Okie, Chief Executive Officer of Inside BW Women Sports, emphasised the significance of the awards in promoting women’s excellence in sports. “It is truly humbling to organise the 3rd edition of these awards, made possible by the tremendous support of Vunani Fund Managers, our headline sponsor until 2026,” she said.
Since its inception, the awards have allocated P157,000 annually to top-performing athletes and administrators. This year, 17 awards will be presented, recognising achievements from January to December 2024. Categories include Sportswoman of the Year, Administrator of the Year, and the HeForShe Champion Award.
To maintain high standards, Okie explained that only athletes affiliated with the Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC) are eligible to apply. “Applicants must demonstrate their performance in both local and regional competitions during the review period, with verification from their respective National Sports Associations (NSAs),” she added.
The application window is now open and will close on February 25, 2025. Applicants must submit detailed profiles outlining their accomplishments over the past year.
Vunani Fund Managers’ P600,000 sponsorship from 2024 to 2026 plays a crucial role in ensuring the event’s success. Their support aligns with their broader social impact strategy, which focuses on advancing gender equality. Okie urged other companies to contribute. “We call on corporates that share this vision to step forward and support this initiative,” she said.
Beyond the competitive categories, the awards ceremony will feature a CEO’s Special Award recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions to sports. Prize money will range from P5,000 to P25,000, reinforcing the organisers’ commitment to empowering women in sports.
The Vunani Botswana Women Sports Awards continue to serve as a vital platform for celebrating and elevating female athletes in Botswana, showcasing their achievements on both local and regional stages.
