By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
In a demonstration of the power of sport as an agent of social change, the Berea and Maseru District Football Associations (DIFA) have announced that they will jointly host a women’s football tournament next month.
The tournament is not just about the sport itself — it is a strong stand against gender-based violence (GBV), human trafficking, and the abuse of women and girls’ rights.
This is not a once-off project but the result of a long-standing dream by DIFA Berea. For decades now, DIFA Berea has passionately strove to advance social advocacy within the sporting realm.
DIFA Berea President Lekhooa Thabaneng also had some words to say on the project’s growth while announcing it officially.
“DIFA Berea has been at the forefront of this movement through leadership, guidance, support, and education regarding these critical matters but today DIFA Maseru joined. Their addition is a huge milestone, not only for women’s football but for the entire movement against GBV and human trafficking due to lack of employment,” Thabaneng said.
The competition will see eight women’s teams, competing not just for brilliance on the territory but for the broader cause of justice and equity. As an added bonus, the winning team will receive M20,000.00 in prize money which signifies that women’s participation in sports is worthwhile and a worthy investment.
This is made possible by the generosity of Sky Blue, the major sponsor that has contributed more than M100,000.00 to ensure the smooth facilitation of the event. The presence of such a generous corporate sponsor not only assures the importance of the cause but also sets a trend for private sector involvement in social activism through sports.
The President of the Women’s Football Committee, Baholo Motene, expressed her joy and pride at seeing women’s football being used to bring attention in such a powerful way. “Women’s football is receiving the recognition it deserves, and it gives me great pride to see it being used to help promote such a great cause. When women feel safe, they can achieve a lot not just on the sporting pitch but in everyday life” she said.
With the visibility and scope of football, DIFA Berea and DIFA Maseru raise these issues on the agenda in a bid to make a different story and motivate a common cause to put an end to these social evils.
As we move towards June excitement is building up, not just for the football, but for what this tournament represents: hope, solidarity, and the unwavering belief that sport can be a force for good. With leadership, committed partners, and a committed community on their side, the women’s football tournament has the power to leave a lasting influence on and off the pitch.