Gaborone women league regional chairman Quelch Moroke has confirmed that Untouchables and Super Falcons have dropped out of the league.
Once considered giants of local football, the two cash strapped teams have in recent times been struggling to keep their heads above water.
The two clubs will be replaced by the duo of F.C Ambassadors and South East Girls United from the South East region.
Moroke said a decision was taken to replace the two clubs following communication that they cannot compete this season.
“Both clubs wrote to us that they are facing challenges that will make it difficult for them to feature in league games this season. We then decided to replace the two clubs with one from South East and F.C Ambassadors from Tlokweng,” he explained.
With the transfer window closed, Moroke said there is now concern that players from both Untouchables and Super Falcons will spend a season kicking their heels.
“It is a serious drawback to witness players inactive despite their talent. Some of these layers are products of development and it is hurting to witness them watching from the stands,” said Moroke.
Heading into the future, Moroke said work is ongoing to find sponsors for women football to ensure teams can sustain themselves.
“We are working hard to secure sponsors to avoid such misgivings in future. The President of the Botswana Football Association (BFA) is willing to assist and we believe as negotiations are ongoing, women football will be in good shape,” he explained.
Reached for comment, BFA spokesperson Tumo Mpatane said the association is aware of the challenges faced by women football and is working hard to find solutions.
“These are a lot of challenges that may arise but we are working on putting everything in place. We advocated for the league to be played in regions and some regions started well despite the challenges. We believe these challenges will be dealt with for the leagues to be managed smoothly in future,” said Mpatane.
