15 May 2014

The De Beers Group of companies and its joint ventures, Debswana and DTC Botswana, on May 15, signed a P2. 5 million sponsorship deal with Botswana African Youth Games Organising Committee (BAYGOC).

The money would go towards preparations for the African Youth Games (AYG) scheduled for Gaborone beginning May 22.

Speaking at the sponsorship launch in Gaborone, the Acting Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture, Vincent Seretse said the support received from companies and individuals was encouraging. He expressed optimism that Botswana would deliver successful during the games.

Seretse said government they were committed to developing youth in their areas of competencies, “Through the elite sponsorship a number of athletes have been sponsored to pursue careers in the field of sport some of whom have represented Botswana at world competitions.”

The acting minister said sport was another sector, which had the potential to create employment for athletes. He said young people who would be taking part in the games stood a chance to make it big in the world of sport.

In his remarks Debswana managing director Balisi Bonyongo said the sponsorship would go a long way in ensuring that the games were of world class quality. He said over and the cash donation DTCB would provide security consultancy to BAYGOC whereas Debswana donated eight computers.

Debswana also released a medical doctor, two nurses and physiotherapists to assist during the games. The games kick off on Thursday with the official opening ceremony at the national Stadium. A total of 2 500 athletes are expected from 53 visiting countries. ENDS