Boko sounds alarm over lack of World Relays hype
Kabelo Boranabi | Monday April 20, 2026 06:00
“Let us all go out and be there to witness this beautiful spectacle of sport,” Boko told the gathering. “Let us support the athletes and make our country the best and proudest host.”
Botswana will welcome some of the world’s finest track athletes, including record holders and rising stars.
He singled out sprint sensation Collen Kebinatshipi, highlighting his rare feat of dipping under 10 seconds in the 100m despite being a 400m specialist, a sign, he said, of a generation “pushing limits” and competing fearlessly on the global stage.
However, beneath the optimism lies growing unease. Boko acknowledged complaints that the event has not been adequately marketed, calling for a more aggressive outreach strategy that resonates with ordinary citizens.
“Take it to the bedrooms and living rooms,” he said, in a direct appeal for wider visibility and public engagement.
The President’s remarks add to a chorus of concern from key figures around what is considered the biggest relay competition in world athletics. Social media has also amplified the criticism, with a circulating post attributed to Olympic 200m champion Letsile Tebogo describing Botswana as being on track to become “the worst host” due to poor promotion.
'Botswana has to be the worst host country to ever host this event. So many companies have contributed millions, but marketing e bad tota okare event ya lona e sephiri (it's bad and seems like your event is a secret,' the screenshot reads.
Low anticipated turnout has been further linked to ticket pricing. Organisers recently introduced a two-day combo package for local fans, with prices set at P500 for adults, P300 for students, and P200 for children under 18. Some argue pricing remains out of reach for many.