The game of darts in Botswana is undergoing significant growth as new teams continue to emerge, signaling a rising interest in the sport.
Currently, 16 active teams participate in the Botswana Darts League across the Northern and Southern Regions. The Northern Darts League commenced on 28 March 2026, while the Southern Darts League began on 11 April 2026.
Northern League participants include G3 (Francistown), Golden Flights (Tonota), Garrison Bosses (BDF), Palapye Darts Crew, Mmabesi (Serowe), Orapa Darts Club, Legends Darts Club (Maun), and league newcomer Nxhai Darts (Sebina). The Southern League features BDF A, Police A, Police B, BUAN, Jwaneng Darts, BOB, and Thebephatshwa Airbase BDF A and B.
Botswana Darts Association PRO, Ndiye Maphorisa, noted that despite a lack of corporate sponsorship, the emergence of new teams like Sebina and the splitting of established teams like Thebephatshwa demonstrate clear growth. He also highlighted a dedicated disability darts team that, while absent in 2026 due to financial constraints, competed successfully in the 2025 season.
Maphorisa emphasised that regional leagues are the primary pipeline for the national team. “Through these leagues, we have absorbed players into the national team who continue to shine,” he said, noting that Botswana has maintained its Top 3 regional ranking.
SSKB Karate Club Triumphs at National Championships
In other sports news, SSKB Karate Club was crowned champion of the Karate National Championships held in Gaborone on 11 April 2026. They were followed by Thebephatshwa Karate Club in second and Pro Fitness Karate Club in third.
The event featured over 30 clubs competing in Kata and Kumite categories under World Karate Federation (WKF) standards. The championships also served as a selection platform for the national team, identifying 42 athletes for international consideration.
BOKA Vice President-Technical, Sensei Union Kgafela, stated the event showcased the rising standards of Botswana karate. He noted standout performances from athletes including Thebe Duna, Lethabo Sekano, Centy Kgosikoma, and Kutlo Thomas.
“The event was successfully hosted without sponsorship,” Kgafela said. “This highlights the need for corporate Botswana to come on board and support karate as the sport continues to produce exceptional talent.”
