Bloated BISA needs more money

The Botswana Integrated Sports Association (BISA) has urged local sports authorities to review the annual budget allocated to them in the wake of an increased number of sport codes falling under their ambit from 12 to 16.

The new codes are bridge, chess, cricket and dance. BISA president Joshua Gaotlhobogwe raised this issue at the recent Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC) Special General Meeting held in Gaborone.

Speaking after the meeting, Gaotlhobogwe said he was just making a comment, which should not be viewed as a complaint. “We have since had an opportunity to consult, the BNSC concerning our budget which should be increased after more sport codes were added.”

Speaking at the meeting, BNSC chairman Solly Reikeletseng said BISA is where grassroots sports development starts. “We must work on a robust plan in regard to BISA we will not have a feeder system. What BISA is currently getting is peanuts considering what they do.”

Gaotlhobogwe explained that the multisport organisation - BISA - is mainly funded by government to the tune of P1 million annually although they submit a yearly budget of eight to P9 million to government.

BISA only receives P460 000 from BNSC. “We often go back and ask for more money from government from time to time.” Gaotlhobogwe argued that there was need to increase their budget allocation from government as they operate 16 sport codes. He added that it could cost up to P700 000 to host BISA national championship event.