Before admission to Princess Marina Hospital, he was preparing to lead his side to a top-eight finish in the league. Notwane's publicity officer James 'Ace' Mooki said that the death of Panene will have a negative impact on his club as he has brought a lot of changes to the team. "It's a sad story that he was with us for less than 12 months. He had brought a lot of stability and discipline to the team. His departure is a great loss and has opened a huge gap in the technical department," he said. Mooki asserted that it is going to be difficult to find a replacement for Panene who led the club to Coca-Cola Cup glory a few months after taking over. "It is important that all Notwane supporters and the nation at large come together during this time of need. We've to ensure that he (Panene) gets a deserving send-off," Mooki said.
Botswana Football Association (BFA) president Phillip Makgalemele told Monitor Sport that Panene was one of the best coaches in this country. He said that they were looking at him as one of the tacticians who could take more responsibilities in future. At the time of his death, Panene doubled as assistant national coach.
Township Rollers' coach Daniel 'Chicco' Nare was still coming to terms with Panene's death. Nare pointed out that he was looking up to Panene as a senior coach since he has achieved a lot in local football. "He was very passionate and we'll miss him," said the Rollers coach. Rollers' managing director Somerset Gobuiwang said that Panene has left a void in Botswana football. He paid tribute to the departed coach for the role he played in transforming Rollers. Panene led Rollers back to the Premiership during the 2003-2004 season. Many people dismissed Mapalastina, under his guidance but he caused a huge surprise when he led Rollers to a league and Coca-Cola Cup double on their return to top flight football in the 2004-2005 season. "We'll miss his character on the sidelines," Gobuiwang said.
Former Mochudi Centre Chiefs' coach Beston 'Quicksilver' Chambeshi told Monitor Sport from Lusaka yesterday that the death of Panene has shocked him. "My condolences to the family. He was a friend and would always give me advice. I think Batswana will miss him," said Chambeshi who is now the technical director of Nkana Red Devils. Evening prayers will be held at Extension 27 opposite Boikhutso Primary School for the departed tactician. By yesterday, funeral arrangements were not finalised.
