Sombre farewell for Motlhabankwe
Larona Makhaiza | Tuesday April 14, 2026 10:53
Unlike the cheers in the stadia he once played in, silence, hymns, prayers and soft murmurs marked Talk Talk’s final journey as mourners struggled to come to terms with his passing on. The late popular footballer was laid to rest on Saturday surrounded by those who had witnessed his journey both on and off the field.
Speakers at the burial paid tributes to Motlhabankwe’s contribution to the national team, highlighting his role in the historic 2012 AFCON finals, where he was part of the Zebras team that qualified for the first time.
Many described him as a bold player who was fearless on the field of play when they took on opponents. Retired forward, Joel Mogorosi reminisced of one moment of them playing in Africa, where Motlhabankwe carried the team.
“There was a time when we were playing in Africa and they threw stones at our bus, even during the game they threw things at us,” he said. “But Talk Talk was not afraid and came to me to tell me that we have to carry the team as most of our players were scared.”
Mogorosi highlighted that the story shows exactly what type of a player Motlhabankwe was,pointing out that outside the field of play, Talk Talk was a simple guy who was cool with everyone.
Botswana Football Association (BFA) president, Tariq Babitseng said, Talk Talk was a true epitome of what a legend is Botswana.
He told mourners that the departed wore Botswana colours with pride whenever he put them on.
For such an indelible mark in the right back position, Babitseng said the association would ponder on how to honour Talk Talk for a stellar career he had despite not playing abroad.
“Just like we did with the late Stanley Tshosane, BFA will come with ways to honour Talk Talk. We will see how to do it, maybe we will name an award after him to celebrate his career,” he said.
Other former teammates and officials recalled his commitment and leadership, noting that his legacy will remain firmly embedded in Botswana’s football history.
His contributions during his playing days will continue to inspire a new generation of players.
Meanwhile other speakers called on people to always celebrate people whilst they are alive and can smell the flowers. Goodhope District Chairperson, Daniel Nkwane, said it’s a pity that he is only being celebrated while he is no more.
“Botswana made history in 2012 {by} qualifying for the first time for AFCON and we call them legends. But look at their lives, does it speak to that. “Let us do things the right way and celebrate people while they are alive,” he said.
As the coffin was lowered, a wave of emotion swept across the crowd, marking the end of an era for those who played alongside him and those who grew up watching him wear the national jersey with pride.