21 Aug 2025

A teenage boy’s journey from Mmathubudukwane in Kgatleng District to the classrooms of Molefi Senior Secondary School in 1992 was not just about a change of environment, but a crucial moment in his life and a leap into the unknown, in a quest of a brighter future.

Leaving home at 17, saying goodbye to loved ones, he carried with him more than just his belongings, he also carried the hopes and expectations of those who believed in traditional paths of becoming a teacher, soldier, or nurse. Yet, the atmosphere in Mochudi and within the halls of Molefi Senior Secondary, would open doors to a world of new possibilities and forever reshape his destiny.

“During boxing training, I used to go and watch,” recalls Dirang Thipe, now the president of Botswana Boxing Association (BoBA). Gradually, I got more interested and eventually joined the school club,” he said.

Back then, while in Form 3, Thipe was under the mentorship of teacher Peter Mlewa. He describes how boxing was Mlewa’s passion, his breath, and purpose. By 1993, Molefi made history when its learners became national boxing champions. After finishing at Molefi, Thipe took a two-year break from the ring to serve in the Tirelo Setshaba programme, working as a teacher. 

But even during this time, he did not let go of his dream. During school breaks, he continued to nurturing his talent and honing his skills. His journey took him to Botswana Diamond Valuing Company boxing club, now known as Diamond Trading Company Botswana. 

His stay there was brief, however, as he soon found a new chapter with his current employer, the Botswana Defence Force (BDF). Today, Thipe is a librarian with BDF, but his true passion has always been boxing. He boasts 33 years of experience, starting as an amateur, rising to professional, coaching and serving in administrative roles and ascending to presidency. In our interview, Thipe keeps on highlighting how pivotal his employer has been in his boxing journey. 

“In 1999, after training, I decided to go back to boxing,” he says. “One thing about BDF is that when they see potential in you, they give you an opportunity.”

He was appointed Glen Valley Boxing Club head coach from 2008 to 2010. In 2008 also, Thipe recalls being assigned to coach the Botswana youth boxing team that participated in South Africa, where eight boxers competed and secured five medals.

“From there, in 2009, I was promoted to the senior team, which took part in the Zone 4 Games in Swaziland. We sent 10 boxers and returned with 10 medals (nine gold and one silver), marking the best team we have ever had,” he explains.

In 2010, he was also elected BoBA vice president (technical). When his tenure ended, he returned to coaching at Glen Valley until mid-2013, when he was elected BoBA secretary general, a position he held until 2015. Throughout this period, whenever possible, he returned to coaching, resuming his role as head coach at Glen Valley for the next two years. In 2017, he was elected vice president of BoBA, once again halting his coaching career.

In 2020, SSKB, where he is currently based, appointed him as head coach, a role he held until August 9, when he was appointed p resident. With 15 years as a boxer (1992–2007), Thipe’s achievements include a bronze medal at the 1999 World Military Games in Croatia. 

That same year, through dedication and hard work, he was called up to the national team, serving until 2006. His notable accomplishments include a bronze medal at the 2002 Commonwealth Championships in Malaysia, gold at the 2002 African Military Games in Nairobi, reaching the quarter-finals at the 2003 Abuja All Africa Games, and a bronze medal at the 2004 Gaborone African Championships, narrowly missing Olympic qualification.

Just as a soldier fights tirelessly to defend and serve, Thipe’s extensive experience is reflected in his efforts to transform SSKB, which he joined with just four boxers, into a club boasting 11 female and 17 male boxers. He is committed to reviving boxing to its former glory during his four-year tenure as the president. 

“As a product of school sport, I want to start at the grassroots, making sure clubs adopt schools at the same time reviving various categories from junior to elite tournaments, similar to the days of the Keone Mooka Mageu Championship,” he said.

A priority for Thipe is increasing the number of women boxers to match their male counterparts, with plans to host sparring sessions and women-only tournaments. Although financial challenges remain, he remains optimistic about securing sponsorships rather than relying solely on the Botswana National Sports Commission. He describes the BDF as his backbone and hopes for its continued support, whether through venues or other means.

A father of three, Thipe’s passion for boxing has also influenced all his children. His second born, Gift Thipe, represented Botswana at the 2019/20 Malawi Youth Games, showing the family’s dedication to the sport. ENDS