06 Nov 2025

Sport betting was introduced in Botswana too hastily, before stakeholders readiness to implement necessary safeguards.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Botswana Football League (BFL) Chief Executive Officer, Billy Sekgororoane, said betting companies were licensed and allowed to operate while essential groundwork such as public education and regulatory guidelines was still lacking.

“I think we moved too quickly in introducing sport betting in Botswana. 

We are now chasing something that is already in place and gaining momentum. If you ask me that have we educated the public enough about the dangers of betting , have we educated our sport people on their conduct, those are the questions we have to answer,” he said.

He emphasised the need for a clear code of conduct for players, referees and all stakeholders, as well as mechanisms to monitor compliance to protect sporting integrity. 

On other matters, Sekgororoane acknowledged delays in handling the disciplinary case involving Township Rollers’ failure to honour their fixture against Calendar Stars.

He explained that progress stalled after both the disciplinary committee chairperson and deputy resigned.

The board has since appointed a new chairperson, and the disciplinary committee is expected to hear the case next week. 

He said justice had to be swiftly handled, adding that such matters should not take months unresolved. Sekgororoane also revealed that the league is facing severe financial challenges. Due to cash flow constraints. He said  referee allowances had not been paid since the start of the season.

He said they had communicated with referees and therefore as soon as the Premier League deals were finalised the issue would be settled. ENDS