‘Africa Youth Games developmental litmus test’
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday December 22, 2025 06:00
Chef de Mission for Team Botswana, Modise Mgadla, said many were able to progress beyond the first stage of the competition, which clearly demonstrates the competitiveness, depth, and future potential of the team. “It is also important to highlight that the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) does not set medal targets for youth multi-sport events, as these games are primarily developmental in nature,” he said.
“Whilst medals remain an important indicator of competitiveness and future potential, the continental exposure, experience gained, and lessons learned at this level are far more valuable for long-term athlete development.”
Mgadla explained that in terms of preparations, although the team did not have a prolonged centralised camp, athletes continued preparing amongst their clubs and federations.
He said some teams and athletes also benefited from participation in the first ANOC School Games, AUSC Region 5 Games, as well as other sport-specific competitions, which provided valuable competitive exposure ahead of the AYG.
“Preparations were, however, affected by the school calendar, as many are school-going and the final academic term coincided with examinations, limiting available training time.
“Overall, my reaction is one of measured satisfaction and optimism, particularly with strong performance from swimming and tennis, which contributed most of the team’s medals and demonstrated positive growth in these sporting codes,” Mgadla added.
He explained that athletics has traditionally been Botswana’s strongest sport at multi-sport competitions, including previous AYG, and as such, it is understandable that there is disappointment at not securing medals at the 2025 edition.
However, Mgadla said the outcome must be viewed amidst the broader context of preparation and timing.
“The games took place during what is typically the off-season for athletics, requiring some athletes to extend their competition season, which affects peak performance.
“In addition, the majority of our athletes are school-going, and the overlap between the final academic term and examination periods further constrained preparation time,” he said.
Mgadla said that whilst the results in athletics warrant careful review, it is encouraging that many athletes were competitive and progressed beyond early rounds.
The team scooped four medals, three by Melodi Saleshando (50m butterfly silver, 50m backstroke bronze, and 50m freestyle bronze), a silver in 50m breaststroke by Matipaishe Gondo, and another silver medal was delivered by Martin Seetso.