Sport hits pause for World Relays
Kabelo Boranabi | Friday May 1, 2026 10:31
The Botswana Boxing Association (BBA) has taken proactive steps to support the relays, including donating boxing equipment to Debswana for exhibition during event activations.
The initiative is aimed at linking sport with Botswana’s diamond industry whilst contributing to the event’s overall visibility.
“This initiative is aimed at showcasing the connection between sport and the importance of diamonds to Botswana’s economy whilst contributing to the overall event,” said BBA public relations officer, Kabelo Seleka.
He added that the association has encouraged its affiliates, clubs, and executive committee members to purchase tickets and attend the event.
“This is not only to show support but also to benchmark and learn how major international events are organised, which will benefit the development of boxing locally,” Seleka said.
He noted that hosting an event of this magnitude presents long-term benefits for sporting codes.
“It raises the profile of sport in Botswana, improves standards in event delivery, and opens doors for partnerships and sponsorships. “For boxing, it is also an opportunity to align with national sporting momentum and grow interest in the sport.”
The Botswana Table Tennis Association (BTTA) has also adjusted its calendar, postponing and rescheduling key activities to avoid clashing with the relays.
“We postponed an event that was meant to be part of our countdown campaign. The Francistown Open has been rescheduled, and we have also moved other launches,” said BTTA public relations officer, Tshegofatso Malepa.
Football, often the mainstay of the local sporting calendar, has put the FNB Premiership on pause, but the women's league matches are on. The Botswana Premier League will not be in action despite an ongoing relegation battle, with champions Gaborone United already crowned.
The First Division North will conclude its season away from the capital, whilst the First Division South has already wrapped up its campaign. Across the board, sports will be on pause with the limelight on athletics.
Major global events hosted in Gaborone
Netball World Youth Cup 2017 Host City: Gaborone Summary: The first-ever world event hosted in Botswana and the first global netball showpiece on African soil.
African Youth Games 2014 Host City: Gaborone Summary: Africa’s version of the Youth Olympics, bringing together elite young athletes across multiple sporting codes with the widest national representation.
CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations 1997 Host Cities: Gaborone, Francistown Summary: Botswana’s first major international sporting event and Africa’s premier Under-17 football competition.
FIM Africa Motocross of African Nations 2016 Host: Botswana Summary: Africa’s biggest motocross event, featuring national teams rather than club riders.
ITTF Africa Youth Championships 2024 Host City: Gaborone Summary: Showcased Africa’s top junior table tennis talent, marking Botswana’s first time hosting the event at this level.