Minister Kelebeng appoints new BNSC Board

The Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng, has appointed a new board for the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC), dissolving the previous one appointed by his predecessor, Tumiso Rakgare.

Leading this fresh team is Goitseone Gadifele, General Manager of Jwaneng Mine, as the UDC government aims to steer Botswana sport toward a new path amid growing financial pressures.

Gadifele, a seasoned mining engineer and corporate leader, will chair the 11-member board for the next four years. His appointment marks a clear move by the government to bring corporate leadership and strategic management into the administration of sport; just as national federations struggle with shrinking budgets and dwindling sponsorships.

The board’s mandate is clear: provide oversight and strategic direction focused on good governance, sound financial management, athlete welfare, and sustainable sport development programs.

Sports stakeholders have welcomed Gadifele’s appointment with optimism, believing his extensive corporate experience could strengthen governance and attract private-sector investment to support Botswana sport.

For years, Botswana sport has depended heavily on government funding. Many national associations have found it tough to secure commercial sponsorships. This challenge has deepened with the country’s economic slowdown, forcing sporting bodies to tighten their belts.

Observers say the new board must prioritize resource mobilization and find creative partnerships to reduce sport’s reliance on government subsidies.

Alongside Gadifele, the board includes Moeti Godisamang, Keenese Katisenge, Tshepo Gopolang Sitale, Dorothy Tlagae-Gaseitsiwe, Kabo Diamond Moseki, Atlarelang Solomon, and Mpho Moatshe, among others.

These appointments come months after Kelebeng dissolved the previous board, sparking significant discussion within sporting circles. Sources close to the matter suggest the minister wanted to realign the commission with his broader vision for sport development. While the government has not publicly explained the reasons behind the dissolution, it was widely understood to be part of a restructuring process.

The outgoing board was chaired by Marumo Morule, who served two terms after his initial appointment by former Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture Tumiso Rakgare in 2019. His mandate was renewed in 2024 before the board’s eventual dissolution.

The new board takes charge at a pivotal moment for Botswana sport. Expectations are high following recent international successes in athletics and other disciplines, while pressure mounts for better governance, stronger athlete support, and increased global competitiveness.

For Gadifele and his team, the challenge will be striking a balance between ambitious sporting goals and financial realities, all while ensuring Botswana’s athletes get the support they need to shine on the world stage.