19 Oct 2026

Pioneering Motswana woman boxing referee and judge, Lone Batsalelwang, will travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo today to officiate at the upcoming Africa elite men’s and women’s boxing championship. 

Thirty-three African countries including Botswana are billed to trade blows at the International Boxing Association (IBA) sanctioned tournament pencilled for the southern banks of the Congo River.

Top African elite boxers are expected to chase continental glory at the tournament, which started yesterday and is scheduled to run until November 1.

Speaking to BOPA ahead of her departure, the Ramotswa-born Batsalelwang could not hide her excitement for being recognised by the internationally acclaimed IBA to officiate at a top drawer continental showpiece.

Batsalelwang officially attained her IBA star 3 certification recently, making her the first woman in Southern Africa to acquire such a feat in the male dominated field.

The IBA star 3 certification is an international certification for boxing referees and judges and possessing it places Batsalelwang in a favourable position to take part in flagship boxing events such as the world championships.

After her recent certification in Nairobi, Batsalelwang received several accolades from the region and was invited to take part in some major tournaments regionally.

She said she was excited to represent Botswana at an international tournament which was testament for her determination and hard work throughout her boxing career which spans over two decades.

Batsalelwang said getting an opportunity to represent the country and African boxing at the continental and global level was an inspiration for her to mentor other aspiring women referees and judges to break the ceiling in the closely contested male dominated field.

She said maintaining the qualification comes with financial demands associated with training and international travel, which may require support from both officials and their respective associations.

Her experience in handling different fighting styles will be valuable as she undertakes her assignment in Kinshasa. ENDS