Botswana banishes lingering World Relays doubts

Mqondisi Dube | Tuesday May 5, 2026 09:25

The organisation of the World Relays was nothing short of immaculate, given the doubts that surrounded the event amid a slow ticket uptake, and a generally mooted atmosphere. The stinging criticism of the organising committee's laissez-faire approach became the galvanising point as the negative publicity rallied a nation. It was positive anger which was needed to nudge a nation into action. Ticket sales started going up, interest in the competition became evident on social media as the days drew closer. Once the riveting opening ceremony was concluded, the out was never in doubt. Botswana was on course to organising a memorable event that will linger long after the last medal has been issued.

The authentic diamond medals added another feather in Botswana's cap, as from America to the southern tip of Africa, it was all, 'wow'. Botswana deserves praise, and what a way to market the country as the National Stadium turned into a sea of blue, black and white, with national pride on full display. The competition was organised in the true, organic Botswana spirit; from the traditional dances, to the cuisine and to cap it all, Dr Vom's unofficial national sport anthem. Botswana's hosting credentials, already tested during the 2014 Africa Youth Games and the World Youth Netball Cup three years later, were significantly enhanced on Saturday and Sunday. The world, which sent 40 nations to the semi-arid country known for its diamond production, literally ate out from the palm of Botswana's hand. And Batswana loved it; they came out in numbers to turn the National Stadium into a sea of celebration. It was picturesque.

One will be forgiven to think that this was a venue that has endured several embarrassing refurbishment moments, leading to the infamous 'pink stadium' nickname. Nothing seemed to go right for the National Stadium until the World Relays happened. As the sun set on Sunday evening, the National Stadium stood, not just as a mortar and brick structure, but as a symbol of the nation's pride and the custodian of the World Relays' success. A new era has been born out of adversity. Talk of how badly things could have gone wrong, has long been banished. It is now all praise, which should spur Botswana to bid for more events of global stature. As of now, Botswana is a nation living in the 'happily ever after' moment, and long may it continue.