Yesterday, 24 November 2025, marked a historic moment for Botswana as the country took a bold step in promoting Sport-for-All, inclusive sport, and national physical activity. The Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) hosted a delegation from The Association For International Sport for All (TAFISA), led by Mr. Wolfgang Baumann and Prof. Zielinski. TAFISA is the leading global organisation dedicated to advancing sport and physical activity worldwide.
The delegation paid a courtesy call to the Minister of Sport and Arts, Honourable Jacob Kelebeng, before attending a press conference for the TAFISA 2027 Congress hosting agreement signing between TAFISA and BNSC in Gaborone. Botswana will become the second African nation to host the TAFISA World Congress, following Cape Town, South Africa in 2001.
The TAFISA World Congress is a landmark global event, bringing together nations to shape policy, exchange innovative ideas, and strengthen collective efforts in sport and physical activity. Hosting the 2027 edition demonstrates Botswana’s ambition, confidence, and belief in sport’s transformative power. The agreement signing formalises a partnership based on trust, shared purpose, and commitment to excellence.
Mr. Baumann expressed confidence in Botswana’s ability to deliver an extraordinary Congress. He highlighted the country’s track record in implementing TAFISA programmes, including the Girls Safe and Positive Coaching Pathway led by Women and Sport Botswana and the Certified Leadership Course run by the BNOC under the IOC-supported SUCCEED framework.
The 2027 Congress is expected to welcome over 700 delegates from around the world, including representatives from the IOC, UNESCO, WHO, the African Union, the European Union, and AUSC Region 5. Mr. Baumann stated that Botswana is not just joining the Sport-for-All movement, but leading it. He emphasized that the country’s selection as host is a result of vision, unity, and demonstrated capability, and he affirmed TAFISA’s full support leading up to 2027.
Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Sport and Arts, Ms. Nancy Neo Chengeta, confirmed that the government fully supports Botswana hosting the 30th TAFISA World Congress. She added that the government is reviewing sport and recreation policies to ensure Sport-for-All, community programmes, and inclusive sport receive stronger backing.
BNSC Chairperson Mr. Marumo Morule described the event as more than a contract signing. He said it represents pride, vision, and commitment, signalling to the world that Botswana is ready to take its place as a global leader in the Sport-for-All movement.
Botswana is now set to showcase its excellence, leadership, and readiness to host a Congress that will leave a lasting legacy for the sport and recreation sector, both regionally and internationally.
