Friday, February 14, 2025

Botswana, Namibia Afcon 2027 bid takes shape

Botswana and Namibia (BONA) Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) 2027 Bid Committee is determined to accomplish its mission. 

The committee is working towards finalizing the bid book. BIDCO chairperson, Ashford Mamelodi does not see any reason to let the golden chance of bidding for 2027 slip the two countries. 

“There is nothing that is going to stop us. It is a matter of do or die,” he told the media on Monday.

Making an update on the ongoing facilities audit, Mamelodi intimated they need support from both the local and international community in order to realize their desires. He said they have strategy in place to lobby to attain maximum support from government, partners and key stakeholders.

“We have requested to host the Confederation of African Football Executive Committee (CAF Exco) soon in Kasane to lobby them to support the bid. The issue is in the hands of the BFA president, Maclean Letshwiti who is liaising with CAF on behalf of the BIDCO,” he revealed.  

During the meeting the BIDCO will showcase the potential and capabilities of the two countries to stage Africa’s top tournament. He said the local political and traditional leadership will be lobbied to support the bid.

 “We are expecting the facility audit report in mid March in which it has to be shared and discussed with the two Sport ministries from the two governments,” he explained.  The facility audit is being undertaken by South African based Rueben Reddy Architects. 

According to Mamelodi once the two countries have appreciated what is needed and commit to meet the CAF minimum requirements they can proceed and produce a bid book. It is expected to be completed ‘not be later than end of May.’ The committee is in the process of hiring a lead consultant(s) to formulate the bid book. 

Mamelodi, commonly known as The Big Ash, is optimistic that the facility audit will give them the picture of what is needed in terms of budget and facilities. The audit consultants have met with Botswana Tourism Organization, CAAB, Ministry of Health and Department of Information Services among other stakeholders.

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