Botswana Swimming Sports Association (BSSA)
The Botswana Swimming Sports Association (BSSA) is the national governing body for swimming and all other aquatic sports in Botswana. It was established in 2005. At the moment, swimming is the active aquatic discipline in the country. The BSSA represents swimming clubs with over 600 registered swimmers. The BSSA is affiliated to the BNSC (Botswana National Sports Commission), the BNOC (Botswana National Olympic Committee) World Aquatics, and Africa Aquatics.
Mission
We enable athlete performance by providing opportunities for optimum growth. We equip our coaches and technical officials to achieve excellence. We empower all in Botswana to swim for life. Contribute to the growth of aquatic sports in Botswana.
History
Founded in 2005, the Botswana Swimming Sports Association quickly established itself as the premier organization for swimming in the country. Its affiliation with World Aquatics in 2006 marked a significant milestone, opening doors for international competition and collaboration. Under the leadership of President James Kamyuka, the association has worked tirelessly to grow the sport, hosting national championships, and sending athletes to international events.
Vision
SWIM FOR FUN, SWIM FOR LIFE: • Swimming as a recreational sport • Swimming as a past time • Enjoying competitive swimming • Swimming as a life skill • Swimming as a culture • Swimming as a sport to embed discipline • Swimming as a career • Continuous swimming development for individuals in the programme
Values
The Botswana Swimming Sports Association upholds the value of integrity by committing to always doing the right thing, maintaining honesty in sport, adhering to anti-doping standards, and ensuring impartiality. Inclusiveness is central to their mission, promoting swimming for everyone. They practice transparency through good governance, effective communication, and encouraging constructive criticism. Cooperation is also key, as they work harmoniously with affiliates and governing bodies, fostering a strong sense of teamwork.
Team
Kgaotsang Matthews
President
Kgaotsang Matthews is the newly elected president of the Botswana Swimming Sport Association (BSSA), succeeding Andrew Freeman who did not seek re-election. Matthews emerged victorious with five votes against Gondo Gondo, who received three votes. Her presidency began following a contentious annual general meeting (AGM) during which concerns were raised about the association's compliance with the Registrar of Societies (ROS). Despite these challenges, Matthews is set to lead the BSSA alongside her executive committee for the next two years, aiming to steer the organization towards greater success and compliance with regulatory standards
Tallman Nkgau
VP – Administration
Tallman Nkgau serves as the Vice President (VP) - Administration of the Botswana Swimming Sports Association. His role involves overseeing administrative aspects of the association, ensuring its smooth operation, and contributing to the strategic planning and implementation of policies that support the growth and development of swimming sports in Botswana. As a key figure within the organization, he plays a crucial part in fostering a conducive environment for swimmers, coaches, and officials, thereby promoting excellence in the sport.
Sindigulwazi Sibanda
VP – Technical
Sindigulwazi Sibanda serves as the Vice President - Technical at the Botswana Swimming Sports Association (BSSA). This role was part of the recent elections held during the association's annual general meeting, where Sibanda was elected alongside other new executive committee members.
Puni Gaetsewe
Secretary General
Puni Gaetsewe serves as the Secretary General of the Botswana Swimming Sport Association, the national governing body for swimming in Botswana. The association was founded in 2005 and has been affiliated with FINA since 2006. It plays a crucial role in promoting and developing swimming within the country, contributing to the growth and success of swimmers at various levels, including national and international competitions.
Matshelo Radimo
Treasurer
Matshelo Radimo serves as the Treasurer of the Botswana Swimming Sports Association (BSSA). He was elected to this position during a committee election held in Gaborone on May 23, 2021.
Kelebogile Molefe
Vice Secretary General
Kelebogile Molefe serves as the Vice Secretary General of the Botswana Swimming Sports Association.
Gwendolyb Harry
Additional Member (PR)
Gwendolyb Harry serves as an Additional Member of the Botswana Swimming Sports Association.
Valerie Ives
Additional Member
Valerie Ives serves as an Additional Member of the Botswana Swimming Sports Association.