Botswana’s esports scene has taken a significant leap forward with its recent recognition by the International Esports Federation (IESF), a move that cements the country’s presence on the global competitive gaming stage.
“The growth of esports in Botswana has been promising since our federation’s establishment in 2024. We’re seeing increasing interest, particularly among youth who are eager to form organized teams and clubs with our guidance,” said Kesego Molosiwa, Marketing Director of BESF. “Our most significant milestones include gaining official recognition from the International Esports Federation (IESF), which positions Botswana on the global esports map, and our formal registration under the Registry of Societies, giving us legitimate standing as a national sports organization.”
While Botswana’s esports industry is still in its early stages, key structural efforts have already been put in place. BESF is focused on fostering grassroots participation, encouraging the formation of organized teams and clubs, and securing sponsorships to fund future competitions. However, challenges such as inadequate funding, limited awareness, and insufficient gaming infrastructure continue to pose hurdles.
“As a newly established federation, our primary challenges include securing adequate funding and sponsorships, limited awareness of organized esports among the general public, insufficient infrastructure for high-level competitive play, and inconsistent internet connectivity,” Molosiwa explained. “We’re addressing these by actively seeking partnerships with corporate sponsors for our upcoming first tournament, conducting grassroots awareness campaigns, and assisting in the formation of well-structured clubs and teams that can participate in future competitions.”
Despite these challenges, Botswana’s IESF recognition is expected to bolster the credibility of its esports industry. This international acknowledgment not only elevates the country’s profile but also enhances its ability to attract investment and sponsorships. In preparation for its first national tournament, BESF is actively engaging with stakeholders to improve gaming facilities and expand access to competitive opportunities.
“Since our founding, we’ve been laying groundwork by helping establish organized clubs and teams that can collectively advocate for better gaming conditions. For our upcoming first tournament, we’re actively pursuing funding and sponsorships that would not only support the event but potentially contribute to improved gaming facilities,” Molosiwa added.
In comparison to other African nations, Botswana’s esports sector is still developing. Powerhouses like South Africa, Egypt, and Morocco have well-established competitive structures, but BESF remains optimistic about the country’s potential.
“As one of the newer formalized esports federations in Africa, we’re still developing our competitive standing. However, our quick recognition by the IESF distinguishes us from many other emerging African esports nations,” Molosiwa noted. “Our approach of helping establish structured clubs and teams provides a solid foundation for competitive development.”
Looking ahead, BESF has ambitious plans to integrate esports into educational institutions, creating opportunities for young gamers to develop their skills in a structured environment. Efforts are already underway to establish school-based esports clubs, paving the way for future professional players, content creators, and technical experts.
“Yes, education integration is an area of focus even as a recently formed federation. Since our establishment in 2024, we’ve seen significant interest from young students, and we’re responding by helping them establish properly structured school clubs and teams,” said Molosiwa.
The long-term vision for esports in Botswana is not only about competitive gaming but also about economic opportunities and youth employment. By 2030, BESF aims to create a sustainable esports ecosystem that offers career pathways in coaching, event management, digital content creation, and technical support roles.
“Our vision is to build on our 2024 foundation to establish Botswana as a recognized esports nation with strong grassroots participation and competitive excellence by 2030. With our IESF recognition and Registry of Societies standing, we aim to create a sustainable ecosystem that provides career pathways for youth in playing, coaching, event management, content creation, and technical support roles,” Molosiwa concluded.
