England is partnered with Botswana - along with Malawi and Lesotho - through the UEFA-CAF Meridian Project which links European national associations with African counterparts to assist the development of the game in Africa.

The FA is widely acknowledged as one of the most active protagonists in the project, having delivered courses in refereeing and administration in Botswana over the last 4 years, invited numerous Batswana coaches and referees on FA courses in England, and hosted a study visit by the BFA President, David Fani, giving him an insight into the management of the English game.

"It's been an enjoyable and fruitful partnership for us over the last few years', expanded The FA's Head of International Relations, Jane Bateman,

"With the various incoming and outgoing visits creating a genuinely rewarding friendship as well as advances in the development of the game in Botswana, notably in the domain of refereeing. We have also been able to help the BFA considerably with the supply of basic kit and equipment which is in short supply, and recently co-funded with the BFA a team bus which will be invaluable, none of the teams previously having had their own transport at all".

England's partnership with Botswana, and its other Meridian Project partners, is a long-term commitment for The Football Association, funded by its International Development Programme.

This programme is active in all corners of the world, working largely through the confederations, ensuring that English football continues to play an important role in the ongoing evolution of the game of football.