Botswana Karate Association (BOKA) will finally establish its own women commission to facilitate full participation of women in Karate.
This was revealed by the association Public Relations Officer (PRO) Isaiah Ramontshonyana.
Speaking in an interview, the BOKA PRO said the commission has a lot in store for women in karate and those that have interest in joining the sport code.
“Women in sports have a feeling that men cannot not effectively address their issues more than they can do themselves, hence we want to give them such a platform,” he said.
According to Ramontshonyane, the motion to establish the commission, which was tabled by the BOKA president, has already been accepted by the BOKA National Executive Committee.
He highlighted that the establishment of the commission is also in line with that of the World Karate Federation.
“The Federation has its own Women Commission, which comprises of only ladies whose aim is to deal and address female issues in karate,” he added.
As such, he said it was advisable to engage in such an initiative and learn from other stakeholders especially those which they are affiliated to.
Ramontshonyane however highlighted that while the commission will look into issues affecting women in Karate, it will not only dwell on those that affect them negatively, but will also try to find ways in which women can fulfil their potential.
“We want women to improve in all aspects for karate, be it in competitions and other technical issues such as being good coaches, referees and administrators who are competent,” he said.
The BOKA PRO said as things stand, Botswana has only two women actively involved in Karate at the highest level. Currently, there is one active international referee and one national coach.
He further said they have realised that women tend to leave karate after their playing days are over and as such they miss on good opportunities that are available for them.
“We hope the commission will be able to address female issues in karate very quickly, and we will be looking forward to seeing an increase of them in karate.”
Moreover, BOKA hopes that more women will get interested in leadership positions with such an initiative introduced, such as being good referees and coaches.
It is reportedly said that BOKA has not yet fully decided on the number of people who will be in the Commission, various positions and will only be revealed with time after further scrutiny.
