The Botswana Golf Union (BGU) has formed a partnership with the Botswana Red Cross Society (BRCS) to raise funds for charity across Botswana. The funds would be generated from tournaments. According to the chairman of the BGU, Ben Tobedza, told they intend to raise about P150 000 and the money would go straight to the needy not the administration.
“In the past we used to raise P100 000, but now we want to increase that by P50 000. With dedication, commitment and with the help of the corporate sector I am optimistic we will raise that money and it will help various needy organisations in Botswana,” he said.
Tobedza also added that they would soon organise a tournament and they would, in turn, sell holes to all interested companies at certain costs. He added that once holes are fully booked, companies can still contribute by putting their logos or banners at the tournament.
“The tournament will be held on the December 1, 2007 to coincide with the World AIDS Day where there will be many campaigns. We all know that AIDS is the real problem nowadays and the BRCS has helped many Aids organisations,” he said.
On the other hand, the BRCS representative, Bashie Gaetsaloe, hinted that the BRCS is committed to its mission and added that they have done well in implementing their plans.
“As Red Cross, we have done well in implementing our strategic plans, accountability, new efficiencies and alleviation of human suffering,” said Gaetsaloe. “As we all know, money is not something that is easily accessible but is needed. We wanted a partnership that would make an impact and we went for the BGU.”
Gaetsaloe also added that with the spirit of volunteerism, they also intend to help many AIDS and Youth Programmes. He did not rule out the possibility of going international as they once did in Somalia in the early 1990s.
Meanwhile, the BGU has applauded the Botswana golf team that recently competed in Namibia. The team did well because they finished fifth out of 13 countries. One of Botswana’s finest golfers, Diane Lucas, flew the flag further by finishing in the top ten out of 53 participants. The Executive Secretary of the BGU, Comfort Ramatebele, said the good performance of the team shows that golf in Botswana is growing. He added that the media is also playing a vital role because golf is getting the necessary exposure.
