Botswana will observe September 29, 2025, as a national holiday, following the country’s outstanding performance at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where local athletes won two gold medals and one bronze. The announcement was made by the President in recognition of the athletes’ achievements and their role in uniting the nation through sport.
The championship started when Busang Collen Kebinatshipi stormed to victory in the Men’s 400 metres, clocking an impressive 43.53 seconds to secure Botswana’s first gold in the event. Kebinatshipi further cemented his place in history by contributing to the Men’s 4 × 400 metres relay team, which captured another gold medal.
The relay team included Lee Eppie, Letsile Tebogo, Bayapo Ndori, Collen Kebinatshipi, and Leungo Scotch, who together showcased teamwork, resilience, and determination on the world stage.
Adding to Botswana’s medal tally, Bayapo Ndori delivered a strong performance in the Men’s 400 metres final, winning bronze.
National Pride and Inspiration
The victories have been described as some of the finest moments in Botswana’s sporting history. The President said the athletes had “lifted the spirit of the nation and demonstrated that Botswana can compete with the very best in the world.”
The holiday on September 29 will give Batswana an opportunity to come together in celebration, with various activities expected nationwide. Sporting bodies and schools are also encouraged to use the day to inspire young people to pursue athletics and other sporting disciplines.
A Milestone for Athletics in Botswana
Botswana has steadily risen in world athletics over the past decade, with athletes like Isaac Makwala and Letsile Tebogo previously putting the country on the map. The Tokyo 2025 success marks a new milestone, cementing Botswana as a force in sprinting and relay events.
Sports analysts say these achievements are likely to encourage greater investment in youth development programs, while also boosting Botswana’s international sporting profile.
Looking Ahead
As the nation prepares to mark the holiday, attention will soon shift to how Botswana can build on this momentum ahead of future international competitions, including the 2027 World Athletics Championships and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
For now, however, Botswana celebrates a golden chapter in its sporting journey — a story of perseverance, teamwork, and national pride.
