08 Jun 2020

Botswana National Olympic Commitee (BNOC) chief executive officer, Tuelo Serufo says the Olympic commitee had to embrace technology during the two-month natiowide lockdown to minimise disruption of their operations.

Speaking at a press briefing in Gaborone on Sunday, Serufho said they were able to use technology, which  enhanced some of their work processes, including holding the first ever virtual General Aseembly.

He pointed out that the organisation would continue to use technology as a cost saving measure and  to improve business continuity, transcending boundaries in order to assist athletes to continue with their training and other sports related routines.

Serufo said though technology platforms had previously existed for administration of athletes including the sports365 platform, the take up by athletes had been low, limiting possibilities for usage, especially during the lockdown and the new normal, which demands social distancing.

According to him, such platforms were meant for athletes tracking to ensure strict adherence to sports protocols, adding that this was limited as most athletes had not yet submitted their information for tracking.

Meanwhile, Serufo said the pandemic had also affected the financial standing of the committee, as government, being the major funder, had to divert some financial resources towards the fight against COVID-19.

He said this had led to some draw backs on the operational performance of the BNOC, as they had to also invest finances into other structures.

He said despite the challenges, athletes continued to receive support, including food hampers and Tokyo 2020 camp allowances for those who had qualified as well as other regular support to sustain them.

He urged the business community to continue assisting sport to improve its status in the country. Ends