President Advocate Duma Boko has hailed Botswana’s growing prominence on the global athletics stage, noting that the country has ‘proved itself in sprint categories’ internationally.
Speaking at the official opening of the Debswana World Athletics Relays Gaborone 2026 on May 1, President Boko said hosting a competition of such magnitude reflected Botswana’s readiness to deliver world-class events and strengthened its position as an emerging athletics hub in Africa.
He added that beyond competition, the relays showcased Botswana’s organisational capability, hospitality and rising sporting talent, while elevating its global profile.
For his part, World Athletics President, Lord Sebastian Coe praised Botswana’s bold commitment, expressing confidence that the championships would deliver extraordinary performances.
He also reflected on the country’s ‘uncut diamonds’ who were young athletes nurtured into elite competitors.
“This event is a historic milestone that could open doors for more global competitions,” he said.
Meanwhile, Minister of Sport and Arts Jacob Kelebeng declared Botswana ready to take centre stage, noting the relays coincided with the country’s 60th independence anniversary, a milestone marked by peace, progress and democratic stability.
“The country is not just ready to compete but ready to host the world again and again as both a sporting nation and a world-class host,” he said. BOPA
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