Gaborone, 24 - 26 November 2025 - In a decisive move that signals growing momentum for Sport for All across Africa, Botswana has been formally selected to host the 30th TAFISA World Congress in 2027. This milestone was followed by the visit of a high-level TAFISA delegation, led by President Wolfgang Baumann, TAFISA Political Advisor, Prof. Zielinski, TAFISA Senior Manager, Game Mothibi and they were joined by TAFISA Vice President, Africa, Keenese Katisenge-Tizhani.
During their mission, the delegation paid a courtesy call to the Minister of Sport and Arts, Hon. Jacob Kelebeng, reinforcing the commitment to a strategic and long-term partnership between Botswana and TAFISA.
A press conference in Gaborone marked the official start of preparations for the Congress, formalizing the agreement between TAFISA and the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC). By securing these hosting rights, Botswana becomes only the second African nation after South Africa to host the TAFISA World Congress, demonstrating the international community's confidence in the country's capacity to deliver a world-class, multi-stakeholder sporting event.
TAFISA President Wolfgang Baumann highlighted that Botswana's selection reflects its strong and consistent record in advancing inclusive sport through initiatives such as the TAFISA' Girls Safe and Positive Coaching Pathway delivered locally by Women and Sport Botswana, and the TAFISA Certified Leadership Course delivered by Botswana expert trainers and hosted by the Botswana National Olympic Committee. These programs were recognized as clear indicators of Botswana's readiness to deliver an impactful and inclusive global congress.
Senior officials, including the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Sport and Arts, Ms. Nancy Neo Chengeta, reaffirmed government's full backing for the 2027 Congress. She noted that national sport and recreation policies will be reviewed to strengthen support for Sport for All, community sport programs, and inclusive development initiatives.
The BNSC leadership emphasized that hosting the Congress is not merely an event contract but a strong affirmation of Botswana's vision and commitment to shaping global Sport for All efforts. They underscored that this milestone positions Botswana as an emerging leader in the international movement for inclusive and accessible sport.
As part of the visit, the TAFISA delegation attended the Special Olympics Botswana National Championships, where they witnessed first-hand the country's dedication to inclusion, community engagement, and the transformative power of sport for persons with intellectual disabilities. Their presence at the event reaffirmed TAFISA's commitment to celebrating and promoting inclusive participation at all levels of society.
The delegation also convened a strategic workshop with the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the 2027 Congress. The session focused on key delivery milestones, governance structures, legacy frameworks, and stakeholder engagement pathways. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the collaborative spirit and shared ambition guiding the preparations.
In addition, the delegation embarked on a preliminary tour of potential venues for the Congress and its side events. The tour provided an opportunity to assess facilities, infrastructure, accessibility considerations, and opportunities to integrate cultural, educational, and community-based activities into the Congress program. The TAFISA team expressed confidence that Botswana's venues are well-positioned to deliver an exceptional and welcoming global event.
Looking Ahead to 2027
The 30th TAFISA World Congress is expected to convene over 500 delegates from around the world, including representatives from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), UNESCO, World Health Organization (WHO), the African Union, the European Union, and regional institutions such as AUSC Region 5.
Organizers and national stakeholders are optimistic that hosting the Congress will significantly elevate Botswana's global sport-sector profile and unlock wide-ranging opportunities for inclusive sport development, community engagement, and social transformation through physical activity.
