01 Jun 2014

The second Africa Youth Games ,which ended on Saturday, May 31, would leave a lasting impression in the minds of Batswana and the African continent.

Joy, passion, unity, and commitment characterised the games. The historic event brought in 53 African countries and about 2 500 athletes, who competed in 21 sports codes.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the acting Minister of Youth, Sports and culture, Mr Vincent Seretse described the games as a “spectacular show case for sport” that proved to the world that the impossible was possible through a relentless pursuit of sporting excellence.

Minister Seretse further applauded all participating countries for a job well done adding that the commitment showed by players to fair play added to the success of the games. He said the Olympic spirit dominated the air at the games and this indicated that players had been true Olympians.

The acting minister saluted Africa for the 10 days of sport excellence adding that this demonstrated Africa’s readiness to host events of this magnitude. “As the host country, Botswana’s job was made easy by the cooperation and support accorded by participating countries right from the time the preparations started until the end,” he said.

“It is not always possible to have all the countries participating but the fact that the 53 countries made it to the games can only attest to their commitment in ensuring that we succeeded,” he added.

Minister Seretse thanked partners and sponsors for their generosity in sponsoring the games as they had planted a seed in supporting these young people that would bear fruits in due course. He said sport, throughout the world, had developed through partnership between governments and the private sector.

Furthermore, he thanked Batswana for their unwavering support to Team Botswana, even when the chips were down, adding that it showed a true spirit of Olympism to respect opponents and gracefully accept defeat.

For her part, organising committee's chairperson, Ms Regina Sikalesele-Vaka applauded Batswana for their warm welcome to the visiting nations adding that this was a true spirit of botho.

The games saw Botswana winning 34 medals in various sporting codes. The next Africa Youth Games are billed for Algeria in 2018. Ends