From its inception, the annual Jwaneng Mine General Manager’s Soccer Fiesta’s main objective was to uplift the lives of people, more especially those living in areas surrounding Jwaneng.
Now in its fourth edition, the Fiesta is no longer just a sports event — it has become a driver of meaningful community development. This year, the architects of the GM’s Soccer Fiesta have made a firm decision that all proceeds from the tournament will go toward building a health post in Betesankwe, a rural settlement located 30 kilometres southeast of Jwaneng. This is a significant move that directly addresses the daily struggles faced by the residents of the village.
Currently, the people of Betesankwe have no local health facility. To get medical help, they must travel to either Jwaneng or Kanye, which involves navigating rough, off-road terrain. The health post will not only provide daily medical needs but will also save lives.
There is no reliable public transport that links Betesankwe with either Jwaneng or Kanye, as a result, residents depend on hiking rides from passing vehicles or relatives who own cars — a risky and unreliable option, especially in medical emergencies.
The mobile clinic that visits Betesankwe only comes once a month, and it is unable to timely meet the community’s full health needs. For urgent cases, this delay in care can have serious consequences.
Recognising this ongoing problem, the soccer fiesta’s leadership decided that this year’s event should fund the construction of a permanent health post in the village. Once completed, the health post will make it possible for Betesankwe residents to access primary healthcare services within their own community, reducing the need to travel long distances. “The project is scheduled to kick off in October 2025 and is expected to be completed by July 2026,” said Public Relations Officer, Keletso Tshekiso.
This initiative marks a turning point for the people of Betesankwe, who have waited for years to see improved services in their area. It also reflects the growing impact of the General Manager’s Soccer Fiesta, continues to demonstrate that sports can be a powerful tool for positive change.
This year participating teams on the men’s side are Jwaneng Galaxy, Dinare FC, Dynamos (Zambia) and Bantu (Lesotho). On the women’s side, teams that will be taking part are Jwaneng Galaxy, Moshupa Stars, National Under20 and Bantu ladies.
The Social teams that have been invited to spice the tournament are Siwelele, Jwaneng Masters, Matshwane and Mekwatla. The 2025 edition is scheduled for the 1st to 3rd August at Galaxy Stadium, Jwaneng.
