16 Oct 2025

The second annual Botswana Police Commissioner’s Run, which aims to encourage young people to engage in alcohol and drug-free activities, is slated for Saturday in Francistown under the theme: Run for a Safer Botswana.

In an interview, Botswana Police Public Relations Officer, Assistant Commissioner Near Bagali announced that the run would be inaugurated by President Advocate Duma Boko, who would start the 21-kilometre segment.

Police Commissioner Dinah Marathe will kick off the 5km and 10km runs. Bagali noted that the intention was to rotate the annual event around major towns and villages across the country.

Following a successful inaugural run in Gaborone last year, which attracted nearly 7,000 participants, the organisers anticipate a larger turnout in Francistown, bolstered by the attendance of the country’s President.

Bagali emphasised the importance of mobilising large numbers of attendees, particularly targeting the youth to ensure the event’s success,

Initiated by Police Commissioner Ms Marathe in Gaborone last year, the run aims to encourage young people to participate in alcohol and drug-free activities, promote crime prevention awareness, and instil a culture of road safety.

The initiative also seeks to strengthen police-community partnerships, raise awareness about Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and promote wellness and healthy lifestyles among the public.

Meanwhile, the event will feature a running event followed by a non-alcoholic festival showcasing local artistes and DJs, along with performances from the Police Band and bands from the Prisons and the Botswana Defence Force. ENDS