Oabile Thona Tariq Babitseng set to take over as new COSAFA President at Elective Assembly in Harare

Oabile Thona Tariq Babitseng is poised to become the new president of the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA), with confirmation expected at the organisation’s Elective Annual General Assembly scheduled for Sunday, 17 May 2026, in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Babitseng, who currently serves as president of the Botswana Football Association, stands as the sole candidate for the top position, effectively clearing the path for his elevation to lead the regional football body.

His unopposed bid is widely seen as a strong endorsement from COSAFA’s member associations, signalling confidence in his leadership credentials and vision for the future of Southern African football.

The impending transition marks the beginning of what stakeholders describe as a new era for COSAFA, with expectations centred on continuity, institutional stability and deeper collaboration among member nations.

Under Babitseng’s anticipated leadership, the regional body is expected to further strengthen its development programmes, expand its competitions, and enhance its overall influence within African football.

COSAFA has, over the years, played a pivotal role in nurturing talent and providing competitive platforms for national teams across Southern Africa.

Babitseng’s appointment is therefore expected to build on these foundations, with a focus on consolidating gains and pushing for greater regional unity in football administration and development.

With no opposition in the race, all eyes will now turn to Harare for the formal confirmation, which is expected to usher in a smooth leadership transition and set the tone for the next chapter of COSAFA’s growth.