Speaking at the donation of football kits to two football teams , Komane reminded them that the 2010 World Cup is just around the corner, adding that preparations are needed for the world's most loved sport.

One of the teams, All Stars, is based in Gakuto while the other team, Lentsweletau Social Club, is from Lentsweletau.

She said Botswana footballers had a chance to compete at the 2010 World Cup if they utilised the remaining time effectively.

She further explained that "Botswana stands to benefit" from the World Cup even if the Zebras did not qualify, as the visiting teams would need practice matches with neighbouring national teams.

Komane advised the young footballers to position themselves very well for the occasion. "I would be glad to see some of you in the Zebras uniform in 2010," Komane said to the excited youngsters.

On other issues, she said sport "keeps children off the streets and protects them" against mischievous behaviour, adding that it can be a powerful tool for training young children on discipline. Komane also recently handed over football kits worth more than P6 000 to Abashanti and Black Army football clubs in Ramotswa.

Kebaeditse Baitlotli reports that the South African High Commissioner emphasised when donating football kits in Ramotswa that there is need for the proper utilisation by producing quality players.

Komane said her office was heeding a call from Balete Kgosi Mosadi Seboko, who had appealed for measures to help reduce the crime rate in the village.

She urged the youth to strive for behavioural change and become responsible citizens, who desist from activities that can jeopardise their future.

For his part, Ramotswa prominent businessman Seabelo Tlhaselo promised to support Kgosi Seboko in the fight against crime in the village by assisting the youth.

The Director of Sport and Recreation Edmund Dladla applauded Kgosi Seboko and Tlhaselo for their joint efforts in assisting the youth of Ramotswa village.

Dladla told them that the government was aware of their joint efforts in supporting the youth and cited a recent address in Parliament by the Labour and Home Affairs minister Moeng Pheto acknowledging the good work they were doing in the village.

from Botswana Daily News