Games to boost economy - Khama

Thato Kala | Friday May 23, 2014 14:51

 

When officially opening the Games at the National Stadium, Khama said the event will allow participants and officials to engage in cultural exchange. “The games provide an open platform to get to know each other and cultivate relations. As a country we believe that participation in sport promotes physical fitness and health.”

Khama said he is confident the visitors from 53 African countries will enjoy the hospitality in Botswana.

Chairman of the Botswana Africa Youth Games Organising Committee (BAYGOC), Regina Sikalesele-Vaka said Africa had been in the rear for too long and the Games give the continent an opportunity to shine.

Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) president, Lassana Palenfo said he was confident Botswana had put together a great spectacle. He said they had worked hand in hand with BAYGOC in preparations to host the second edition of the Games.

“I am confident the Africa Youth Games will be historic as the people of Gaborone will welcome the athletes and their guests with open arms for this largest youth continental sporting event,” Palenfo said.

ANOCA honoured Khama for investing in the development of youth through sport and culture. ANOCA general secretary, Thomas Ganda Sithole said they honoured Khama for understanding the power of sport and the faith he has placed in it. He said they recognised the role sport played in the country’s Vision 2016.

“We proudly note the role sport plays in the Vision 2016.”

Sithole added that ANOCA has noted with great interest Botswana’s ever-improving progress in international sport.  “Botswana’s ever improving performances is testimony to the rapid transition from the backside to excellence in sport.”