18 Nov 2014

Government employees in Ghanzi recently held a soccer tournament in the spirit of cooperation and unity.

The two-day event termed Botsalano Soccer tournament attracted six teams from various government departments in Ghanzi such as Ghanzi senior school, Itekeng junior school, Prisons, Ghanzi primary hospital, Ministry of Transport as well as Water Utilities were the six teams that participated. 

In an interview, chairperson of the Organising Committee, Robert Mannathoko, said the soccer tournament had been in existence for 14 years dating back to 2000. He said the tournament was meant to promote unity and friendship among employees in government departments which are in Ghanzi Township.

He further noted that the soccer tourney is not just about football games, but also promoting good health amongst employees. Hence, they also invited stakeholders like Tebelopele and Ghanzi primary hospital for attendees to test. 

The tournament has been self-sponsored with participating teams contributing P600 each, Mannathoko noted. Nevertheless this year, he said they managed to solicit sponsorship from various business communities in Ghanzi Township.

He further said together with sponsorship money and the teams’ contribution,  they were able to acquire trophies for winning teams as well as cash prizes for the participating teams. 

Although other businesses came forth and sponsored the tourney, Mannathoko noted with disappointment that some businesses are not willing to sponsor the event to motivate them. 

However, he said the event has shown growth and development as other teams from other government departments have shown interest to participate next year.

He appealed to potential sponsors to be part of this event saying it has nothing to do with politics but for the unity and cooperation of government employees in Ghanzi Township. 

The tourney ended with Itekeng junior school (Dumela football club) and Ghanzi primary hospital (Mokento football club) at the finals, and Itekeng triumphed in the end with a win of 11-10 on penalties.

The winner walked away with P800 cash and a trophy, second position which was Mokento got a trophy and P650 while Ghanzi senior school who were the champions last year walked away with P520 and a trophy on third position. 

The teams which could not go further than group stages; Water Utilities, Prisons and Ministry of Transport won P400, P300 and P300 respectively.

Botsalano soccer tournament was sponsored by Sexanana holdings, Shell Filling station, Choppies supermarket, Trans cash and carry and Ghanzi butchery. ENDS