- Launch of sponsorship ends anxious time of uncertainty
- Allocations of P5.1m for prize money per season agreed
GAZETTE REPORTER
The Orange FA Cup will continue uninterrupted for the next three seasons after uncertainty attended its future, thanks to Orange Botswana injecting a P15.3 million into the blockbuster tournament.
The renewed collaboration between Botswana Football Association and Orange Botswana will see allocations of P5.1 million for prize money per season, which is an increase of P800 000 on previous tranches.
Local communities
Speaking at the launch of the sponsorship in Gaborone recently, the Chief Finance Officer of Orange Botswana, Bishy Butale, said the renewal of the agreement reaffirms the telco’s dedication to fostering development, growth and promotion of the local game and upliftment of local communities.
“This collaboration with the BFA makes a difference to thousands of people, both directly and indirectly,” Butale said.
“Building from the success of the last contract and our history of partnering football, we are delighted to announce an investment increase of 17 percent to P15.3 million over three years, which equates to just over P5.1M per season.
“Football is a universal language that unites people regardless of background, race and language. Orange has played a key role in development of sports across the world, including Europe and Africa. We have supported various sports disciplines and empowered athletes in our efforts to advance them to reach their goals.”
World-class tournament
The idea, he noted, is to organise and deliver a world-class tournament that will make an impact on players and teams in both lower and higher divisions. “The Orange FA Cup depends on the media to create a sense of excitement and anticipation around the tournament while maximising impact,” Butale said.
“Media coverage helps to create an emotional connection between the teams and the fans. As an exhilarating football tournament that unites football fans across Botswana, the Orange FA Cup aims to close the gap between the local regional division and first-division leagues.
“Gaborone United emerged victorious as the winners of the 2021/22 season in a thrilling final against Security Systems. This year, 48 local teams will stand a chance to win a P800 000 cash prize.”
Vote of confidence
Also speaking at the launch, the president of the BFA, Mclean Letshwiti, described the renewal of the sponsorship as a vote of confidence in the BFA’s football development efforts. “We are happy that Orange has a huge confidence in us as we intend to professionalise and advance football in Botswana,” Letshwiti said.
“New talent was discovered through this tournament because it creates and offers a platform for all teams in lower and higher divisions to showcase their talent and potential in the field of play. I am happy that Orange is also considerate of the households where lives depend on football.
“Football plays a critical role in the lives of people because it employs people in administration, coaching and sports medicine, among others, and we promise nothing but accountability and professionalism in our quest to better the beautiful game of football.”
ORANGE FA CUP 2023/2024 Fixtures
South Fixtures
Matebejana vs VTM
Kang Royal Stallion vs Lokgwabe United
Holy Ghost vs Mochudi Centre Chiefs
Nojane Young Stars vs UB Hawks
Black Rangers vs Mochudi United
Taung Young Strikers vs URI Black Forest
Matebele FC vs Tlokweng United
Broadhurst United vs Naughty Boys
North Fixtures
Sankoyo Bushbucks vs FC Masterpiece
Green Lovers vs Miscellaneous
Super Stars vs Etsha Morning Star
Chadibe FC vs Mogorosi Daillars
Zowa United vs Peace Makers
Rolling Guys vs Santa Green
Eleven Angels vs Mbalakalungu
Nico United vs Dukwi Sporting Club