20 Apr 2026

President Advocate Duma Boko has officially handed over the ceremonial baton to Botswana sprint star, Isaac Makwala, marking the launch of a nationwide relay journey ahead of the Debswana World Athletics Relays Gaborone 26, scheduled for 2–3 May in Gaborone.

The baton, which forms part of the buildup to the relays, will travel across the country ahead of the international event.

The baton handover took place at the Botswana National Museum on April 20, where the President said the location was chosen for its deep historical and symbolic significance.

He noted that the moment was not only about reflecting on Botswana’s journey, but also about defining the future the country is building.

“We gather here today at this place, the National Museum, a place of deep historical and symbolic importance, not only to reflect on a journey that has shaped Botswana, but to define with clarity the future we are determined to build,” President Boko said.

He announced the launch of the Botswana 60 Years of Diamond Leadership Initiative; a national strategic platform aimed at commemorating six decades of diamond-led development while positioning the sector for the future.

“We are positioning Botswana’s diamond industry for the future—from value chain development, broadband-led marketing, and downstream commercialisation,” he said.

President Boko added that the initiative represented firm national commitments beyond symbolism, calling it a declaration of intent for the country's development trajectory.

“These are deep-seated commitments, solemnly declared in public and affirmed here, now, and into the future,” he said. ENDS