- Arguably the longest-serving CEO in BFA history
- Mfolo Mfolo served under two BFA presidents
- Babitseng confirms Mfolo’s decision to step down
Mfolo Mfolo, the steadfast CEO of the Botswana Football Association (BFA), is preparing to step down next month as his contract concludes, bringing to a close one of the most enduring and impactful leadership tenures in the history of Botswana’s football.
Having navigated the association through the terms of two presidents, Maclean Letshwiti and the current Oabile Tariq Babitseng, Mfolo has been the steady pulse behind the operations at the Lekidi Football Centre for years. His leadership has weathered waves of transformation, controversy, and essential reforms. His impending departure marks the end of an era, with many recognizing him as perhaps the longest-serving CEO the BFA has ever had.
WeekendSport has learned that Mfolo will not seek a contract renewal, despite maintaining amicable relations with the current BFA leadership. Sources close to the veteran administrator reveal that he feels he has “done his part” for Botswana football and is ready to hand over the reins to new leadership.
“He believes he has contributed enough to the game and wants to pave the way for other administrators,” a source confided. When contacted for comment, Mfolo declined to discuss his future, instead directing this publication to the BFA president for clarification.
In an interview with WeekendSport, BFA president Tariq Babitseng disclosed that he held talks with Mfolo late last year, during which Mfolo made it clear that he did not intend to extend his contract, which expires in February.
Babitseng added that Mfolo expressed a willingness to facilitate a smooth transition by working closely with the association’s current Chief Operations Officer, Kago Mosinyi, offering training and support ahead of his departure. This plan, Babitseng explained, aims to ensure continuity and stability within the BFA once Mfolo’s tenure ends.
Mfolo’s journey has not been without its challenges. In November 2020, he faced suspension following the humiliating disqualification of the national Under-17 boys’ team from the COSAFA regional tournament. The team was barred after the BFA failed to administer the mandatory MRI tests required by CAF and COSAFA, a misstep that sent shockwaves through the association. The BFA National Executive Committee responded swiftly, appointing Dr. George Mokone, Mothusi Taolo, and Lore Morapedi to investigate the incident.
A press release issued on December 5 stated, “BFA NEC has today, Saturday, December 5th, agreed to mutually part ways with its CEO, Mfolo Mfolo. The two parties pronounced the parting of ways as an amicable agreement.” Many insiders speculate that the Under-17 fiasco was a convenient catalyst for the BFA to sever ties with Mfolo, who by then had reportedly fallen out of favor with the leadership.
Mfolo’s association with the BFA began in 2017, initially on a two-year secondment from the Ministry of Tertiary Education, Research Science and Technology. After a turbulent period, March 2022 saw his return to steady the ship following the dismissal of Goabaone Taylor. His comeback to the Lekidi Football Centre was widely viewed as a move to restore order and guide the association back on course.
In a recent development, this publication has learned that Mfolo, alongside sports heavyweights Game Mothibi and Olebile Sikwane, sought the position of CEO at the Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC). Despite his extensive experience, the role was awarded to veteran sports administrator Olebile Sikwane, appointed by the Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng. Sikwane is set to take office in mid-January 2026 on a four-year contract.Mfolo’s departure closes a remarkable chapter, one marked by triumphs, setbacks, and an unwavering dedication to the beautiful game in Botswana.