UB upsets SSKB for Gabs Open kumite title

Calistus Kolantsho | Wednesday October 15, 2025 06:00

UB entered the final of the event that was held at Regent Hill English Medium School on Sunday on tenterhooks, not sure whether its young roster would deliver in what seemed close to being a ‘do or die’ situation. Kenny Sempipeng, representing UB, held his nerves and landed a win against Teto Wakwena, who had earlier on picked a gold medal in an individual event.

Sempipeng’s performance motivated his fellow teammates, Mogomotsi Kolobe, Mabika Philemon Otsile, Mokgathong Kago John and Modielo Lesang Casper as they went all out to deliver a gold medal to UB.

In an interesting comeback, former Africa Junior Champion, Thabang Setshego returned to action by winning a gold medal in the kumite senior men Under 75kg category. Setshego was representing SSKB Champions club.

SSKB team, which comprised Wakwena, Progress Siphambe, Sefo Gobopaone, Goitseone Koosaletse and Lame Stock settled for the silver medal.

The event organiser, Ofentse Bakwadi told Sport Monitor that the tournament has proven itself as a major event on the regional karate calendar.

“The numbers were impressive, with strong participation from countries across Southern Africa, showing just how much this tournament has grown in stature and influence. “Our local athletes performed exceptionally well and showcased their immense talent. The tournament once again highlighted Botswana’s growing depth in karate and the potential of our athletes to shine on both regional and continental stages,” he said.

Bakwadi also said other athletes such as Lethabo Sekano, Louis Chengeta, Wakwena, Lame Hetanang, Kutlwano Atlhopheng and Atang Motswakhumo emerged victorious in their respective divisions.

He added that Setshego reminded everyone that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.

Meanwhile, Sensei Yotham Semasiku from Namibia revealed that he had brought a young learning team of 17 athletes, 12 did well although they did not win any gold medals but a few silver ones.

“The competition was well organised but in future they should increase the number of mats from three to five because of the high volume of athletes and bring in more officials.

“That way we can finish on time. The tournament has grown compared to the last when I was here three years ago. In terms of quality of performance, the competition was good,” he said.

Zimbabwe team instructor, Sensei Shepherd Ziwira said his team has been taking part in the tournament since its inception five years ago. He said the Gaborone Open has grown and on the first day the event ended at midnight.

“I have realised that the athletes are working very hard and they have been improving over the years which is good for karate in Southern Africa. My advice to the organisers is to look for bigger venue next time,” he said.

Gaborone Open annual tournament attracted over 500 karatekas including from Malawi, Angola, South Africa, DRC, Zambia and Mozambique.