- The Botswana Boxing Association says it has largely kept to its 2026 calendar, with major competitions, club development and national team programmes continuing as planned
TLOTLO KEBINAKGABO
The Botswana Boxing Association (BoBA) says it remains largely on track with the implementation of its 2026 calendar, despite making what it described as a few unavoidable adjustments.
BoBA spokesperson Kabelo Seleka said the association has already delivered several key activities scheduled for the year, including the National Boxing League, club licensing engagements, development programmes and the recently concluded 3rd UB Open Boxing Championship.
“Yes, we are largely on track. Despite a few unavoidable adjustments, we have successfully delivered key activities on our calendar, including the National Boxing League, club licensing engagements, development programmes, and most recently the successful 3rd UB Open Boxing Championship,” Seleka said in a telephone interview.
He said the association continues working with its affiliates and stakeholders to ensure the remaining activities are delivered as planned.
Upcoming Events
Seleka said boxing supporters can expect more competitions and development initiatives over the coming months.
These include the continuation of the National Boxing League, additional club-hosted tournaments, youth development programmes, coaching and technical development initiatives, and the implementation of the Club Licensing Programme.
“We also have preparations for regional and international competitions as we continue strengthening our development pathway,” he said.
National Team
Seleka said the senior national team is currently competing at the Commonwealth Games after completing preparations that included local training camps, participation in a regional camp in Zambia and structured technical programmes.
He said once the Commonwealth Games campaign concludes, the association’s attention will turn to continental and international competitions as part of its long-term high-performance programme.
“Our expectation is for the team to compete confidently and represent Botswana with pride,” Seleka said.
He added that while performance remains a priority, the association also places importance on exposing athletes to high-level international competition.
According to Seleka, training has focused on conditioning, technical refinement, tactical awareness, ring management and adapting to different fighting styles to prepare boxers for international opposition.
Year Priorities
Seleka said Botswana boxing is on a positive trajectory, citing increased participation, stronger club engagement, improved governance structures and growing interest from partners and stakeholders.
He said BoBA’s priorities for the remainder of the year include strengthening club development through club licensing, growing the National Boxing League, enhancing technical capacity, investing in youth development and continuing to implement its Strategic Plan 2025–2028.
“Our goal is to build a sustainable boxing ecosystem where strong clubs build a strong BoBA, and a strong BoBA builds stronger boxing in Botswana,” he said.