President Duma Boko yesterday paid a special visit to Botswana’s senior women’s national football team, The Mares, to offer his encouragement and support ahead of their departure to the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), set to take place in Morocco from July 5–26.
The team held its final local training session in Gaborone before departing for Morocco, where it will conclude preparations ahead of the tournament. This marks a significant moment for Botswana as The Mares continue to raise the country’s profile on the continental football stage.
In a show of goodwill and support, President Boko presented each player with a pair of sneakers and pocket money. Addressing the team, he encouraged the players to wear the national colours with pride and to compete with passion and resilience.
“The nation is behind you,” said Boko. “Your achievements reflect the spirit and determination of our people. The government remains committed to supporting women in sport and ensuring our national teams are adequately resourced.”
The send-off underscores the current administration’s broader agenda of investing in the sports sector as a means to drive national unity, promote gender equality, and stimulate economic development.
The Mares will be representing Botswana in what is expected to be a highly competitive tournament, and fans across the country will be closely following their progress.
