25 Jul 2021

Team Botswana entered the Tokyo 2020 Olympics opening ceremony in style on Friday.

The team adorned the traditional leteisi instead of the customary blue, black and white national colours.

Led by 400 metres runner, Amantle Montsho and swimmer James Freeman, Botswana was number 167 in the procession owing to the Japanese alphabetic order.

Justifying their choice of regalia, Botswana chef de mission, Tshepo Sitale, said in an interview that the attire was motivated by the idea to sell Botswana to the world.

Sitale said people often wore suits, but in recent times Batswana decided to switch to Leteisi during various celebrations such as weddings.

“So, in these Olympics Games we are celebrating what we are as Batswana. We are here to also showcase our culture, we are not here for competitions only,” he said.

Game Mothibi, who is in Japan as production venue assistant for the Olympic Broadcasting Services workforce and working at Kasumigaseki Country Club, said the feeling of being part of a parade at major games was great.

“But the Olympics parade must be the best feeling ever, being in your cultural attire and seeing the flag of your country hoisted in front of you is a blessing that you are an ambassador for your country,” she observed.

Mothibi said seeing Team Botswana in leteisi at Tokyo2020 Olympics, gave her and Batswana goosebumps.

“It makes us emotional and makes us love our team even more. The blue leteisi together with the blue, black and white flag give our athletes honour and respect from Batswana that we are happy they are representing us. Leteisi gives our team identity as part of the most beautiful and peaceful country, Botswana,” she said.

Meanwhile, Botswana has sent a team of 14 athletes with Nijel Amos in track and field competing in the 800 metres.

In 400 metres women there is Montsho, Galefele Moroko and Christine Botlogetswe, while Isaac Makwala and Leungo Scotch make the 400 metres men’s team.

The 4x400m men’s relay comprises Baboloki Thebe, Anthony Pesela, Zibani Ngozi, Bayapo Ndori, Makwala and Scotch.

In boxing Mahommed Rajab will compete in the 52 kg category, while Keamogetse Kenosi will be in the 57kg.

In weightlifting there is Magdeline Moyengwa in the 59kg, while swimmer James Freeman will represent Botswana in the 200m and 400m freestyle. ENDS