The chairperson of the Sports Volunteer Movement (SVM) in the North Region, Tapson Patane, is confident that his organization will contribute immensely to the growth of sports in the northern region.
SVM is a voluntary organization and an affiliate of the Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) which is mandated with organizing or rendering services to different sporting codes in the country, such as catering, cleaning, security, providing referees and even sports equipment during sports games. The organization was re-launched this year in April after its collapse in 2001.
During a press briefing last week, Patane expressed his happiness that since the re-launch in April, the response from beneficiaries has been positive.
“We are very impressed that SVM is continuing to register an impressive number of members and we are confident that we are going to seriously develop sports in the region and the country. We already boast a number of 120 members since our re-launch in April,” said Patane.
He added that the movement is keeping all avenues open for different sporting codes in the country to utilize their services. Patane also called on schools to utilize the services of SVM to support sports among the youth.
He said they will soon be working with the Be Mobile, Re Ba Bona Ha and other non-governmental organizations in their bid to cultivate sports in the country. He cited financial challenges as one of the obstacles retarding their efforts.
“Financial hurdles continue to be some of our major challenges, but hopefully as time goes on we will be able to overcome these challenges as our organization is growing in leaps and bounds,” he said.
He added that the establishment of SVM is another way of trying to promote self reliance among Batswana and to promote the spirit of volunteerism. Patane also revealed that they are planning to approach the business community to support them.
“As I am speaking to you, we will be part of the exhibitors in the upcoming BOCCIM Northern Trade Fair to try and take our organization and services to the people,” he added.
He concluded that they will continue to strengthen their relationship with the media to try and market their organization.
