In a move that will go a
long way in addressing widespread concerns of players’ safety in the First
Division League, Debswana has donated 24 fully equipped first aid boxes and
stretchers to the BFA. The equipment will be distributed to all the teams
involved in the Frist Division league. In addition, Debswana will make provision
for first aid training for all the teams
Debswana Head of Corporate
Affairs, Rachel Mothibatsela said that the company’s gesture was motivated by
the company’s value of safety, which puts the lives of people first. She
further underlined that Debswana prides itself in the development of football
in the country, adding that safety has to be the number one value in a sport
that is a source of entertainment for Batswana and globally.
“Over the past six years,
Debswana has invested over P17 million in sports development in Botswana. Today
I am delighted to present yet another contribution worth more than P200 000
which includes first aid boxes and stretchers. In addition, we will make provision
for first aid training for all the teams,” Mothibatsela said.
The Botswana Football Association (BFA) has
hailed the coming onboard of Debswana Diamond Company in development of
football and other sport codes in this country. The Football Association
particularly applauded Debswana for its involvement in football, notable the
National First Division League. Debswana has an agreement with the BFA to
sponsor the First Division League at the value of P6 million, spread equally
over a period of three years.
The BFA Chief Executive Officer, Mfolo Mfolo,
and First Division North Chairperson, Mpenzeni Samandawe. The two hailed
Debswana Board and management for their decision to support football in this
country, adding that “We are very proud as
Government that Debswana is doing the right thing by being involved in a
national sport that unites people, a national sport that everybody wants to
associate with.”
Mfolo added that the BFA has
continued to enjoy cordial relationships with Debswana, noting that the
partnership has moved football forward. He however bemoaned some of poor
facilities and even lackluster safety measures in the league, adding that there
is shortage of basic equipment such as first aid boxes and stretchers in the
First Division. According to Mfolo, players’ welfare is at risk as a result of
the shortage of basic amenities.
When receiving the contribution
by Debswana, Mpenzeni Sambandawe, committed to prioritise safety within the
league. He pleaded with the teams to utilize the first aid kits to safeguard
players’ welfare.