Botswana On The Cusp Of VAR Implementation

The Botswana Football Federation (BFA) has taken a bold step towards implementing the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in their domestic league, aiming to become the first nation to utilize the technology in the COSAFA region.

An official Implementation Assistance and Accreditation Programme (IAAP) was held in Botswana’s capital city Gaborone, with BFA president Oabile Thona Babitseng and CEO Mfolo Edwin present at the kickoff meeting.

Additionally, a high-ranking official, Takaaki Inokuchi, who’s a FIFA Football Technology Strategy representative was also in attendance alongside Lead VAR Match Official and Referee instructor Felix Tangwariwa and FIFA’s support VAR Leader Ramy Gamal.

While the VAR has immensely improved the decision making in the game across the globe, it has also come under scrutiny due to officials making dubious calls despite having the technology at their disposal.

Now, referee instructor Tangawarima highlighted the importance of adequate referee training in obtaining VAR certification and making right and fair calls, which could also enhance the officials’ careers internationally.

“For referees to be certified, they have to be trained and go through a minimum of 25 hours. This will enable the Botswana referees to be VAR certified and participate or be called for international match fixtures to officiate,” he told COSAFA media.

COSAFA will conduct the VAR training sessions in Botswana in April 2025 as the Southern African nation edges closer to a significant milestone. This is expected to transform the nation’s football ahead of their first-ever AFCON appearance since the 2012 edition.

Meanwhile, BFA President Babitseng says he’s proud to see the country leading the pack in the COSAFA region and expressed optimism about improving the standards and quality of football in Botswana with the VAR.

“This is a groundbreaking moment for our football. VAR will bring accuracy and fairness to our matches, and we are proud that Botswana is leading the way in the COSAFA region, ” stated Babitseng, who was appointed in September 2024.

With Botswana set to embrace modern technology like other top footballing nations, this will serve as a major boost for South African mentor Morena Ramoreboli, who will lead the Zebras in the 2025 AFCON after his permanent appointment on a two-year deal in January 2025.