BFA hosts VAR kickoff meeting as Botswana moves closer to VAR implementation
The Botswana Football Association (BFA) has taken a major step towards introducing Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology, with the official kickoff meeting for the VAR Implementation Assistance and Accreditation Programme (IAAP) held in Gaborone.
The meeting was officially opened by BFA President Oabile Thona Babitseng, with BFA CEO Mfolo Edwin Mfolo, FIFA Football Technology Strategy representative Takaaki Inokuchi, Lead VAR Match Official (VMO) and Referee Instructor Felix Tangawarima, and Ramy Gamal, FIFA’s Support VAR Project Leader, in attendance.
In what could be a historic milestone, Botswana might become the first country in the COSAFA region to implement VAR technology. Speaking at the meeting, Tangawarima emphasized the importance of referee training in achieving VAR certification.
“For a referee to be certified, they have to be trained and go through a minimum of 25 hours. This will enable Botswana referees to be VAR certified and participate or be called for international match fixtures to officiate,” said Tangawarima.
As part of the implementation process, COSAFA will conduct intensive VAR training sessions in Botswana this April, where referees are expected to undergo a minimum of 25 hours of training. This training will not only prepare them for domestic competitions using VAR but will also open doors for Botswana’s referees to officiate in international matches.
BFA President Oabile Thona Babitseng highlighted the significance of this development, stating that VAR will enhance the integrity and professionalism of Botswana football.
“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,” Babitseng said.
With preparations now in full swing, Botswana football is on the cusp of a major transformation, positioning itself among the top footballing nations embracing modern officiating technology.
By Masego Busumane
