Kebinatshipi dominates 45th National Sports Awards
Johannes Kambai | Tuesday May 12, 2026 09:28
The glittering event celebrated a year of remarkable achievements on the international stage, with athletics once again stealing the spotlight. At the realm of the celebrations stood Busang Collen Kebinatshipi, who emerged as the undisputed biggest winner of the night.
The 22-year-old sprint sensation from Lotlhakane East claimed the prestigious Sportsman of the Year and overall Sportsperson of the Year titles, marking his second individual accolade of the evening.
His 4x400m relay squad, featuring stars like Letsile Tebogo, Lee Eppie, and Bayapo Ndori, further swept Team of the Year honours. Kebinatshipi's dominance reflects a breakout global campaign.
As the reigning World Champion in the 400m from the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo where he set a national record of 43.53 seconds he has elevated Botswana's flag on the biggest stages.
His contributions to the men's 4x400m gold-winning relay added historic depth, while recent sub-10 second 100m runs (9.89s) at national championships underscored his versatility.
In his acceptance speech, the visibly moved Kebinatshipi paid heartfelt tribute to his support system.
'I want to thank my coach Chilume Ntshwarang for his dedicated guidance and belief in me. 'This journey hasn't been easy, but with the right team behind me, we've achieved what once seemed impossible for Botswana athletics,' he said.
His words resonated deeply, highlighting the blend of individual talent and collective effort that defines success.
The night belonged firmly to athletics. Oratile Nowe, a national record holder in the 800m, 1000m, and 1500m, was crowned Sportswoman of the Year.
Junior Female Sportsperson of the Year went to Same Mhutsiwa, rounding out a clean sweep for the discipline in major categories.
Other recognitions spotlighted diverse excellence across Botswana's sporting landscape. Goitseone Phoko earned the Minister's Award, while various codes from chess and tennis to boxing received nods for outstanding performances.
The awards underscored the depth of talent nurtured under the BNSC's 'Earn Your Stripes' vision, with P75,000 reportedly accompanying the top individual honour.
The 45th edition served as more than a mere ceremony; it was a powerful affirmation of Botswana's rising sporting prowess amid limited resources.
Kebinatshipi's multiple triumphs symbolise a new generation of athletes who compete and win at the highest levels, inspiring schoolchildren in Hukuntsi and beyond to dream bigger.
As the echoes of celebration fade, the BNSC and the entire nation now set their sights firmly on Paris 2028 and beyond, where trailblazers like Kebinatshipi are poised to shine even more brilliantly on the global stage.
Closer to home, the Commission is equally focused on hosting the prestigious ITF World Tennis Tour events featuring M15 and W15 tournaments right here at the National Tennis Centre in Gaborone, events that promise to elevate Botswana’s profile as a regional sports hub.
For one unforgettable night, however Botswana simply paused to express profound gratitude to the relentless grind, the hard-won glory, and the remarkable athletes who continue to make the nation immensely proud.