18 May 2026

The decision by the late former President Festus Mogae to sanction the creation of a ministerial portfolio dedicated to sport was visionary and helped transform the direction Botswana took in sport and the arts.

This was said by Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) president, Tshepo Sitale during the State Memorial Service held in honour of Botswana’s third president.

Mr Sitale said the establishment of the then Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture (MYSC) was a crucial milestone that enabled improved funding and logistical support for sport development.

"It was during his tenure, after the Seepapitso Commission that MYSC was established. Back then sport had been lumped as a portfolio under the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs. Sport had been treated just as a leisure recreational activity, whereas it is a multi billion dollar industry worldwide which Botswana can tap into," Mr Sitale said.

He said the establishment of the ministry created room for structured support for sporting codes and national teams, with the country steadily recording progress thereafter.

Mr Sitale noted that during President Mogae’s tenure, Botswana achieved several sporting milestones.

Among them was Glody Dube becoming the first Motswana athlete to reach an Olympic final in the 800 metres at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

He also cited the achievements of Gable Garenamotse, Lechedzani Luza and Gilbert Khunwane, who won Botswana’s first medals at a major international competition during the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.

Additionally, Tshotlego Morama won gold in the women’s 400 metres T46 category at the 2004 Paralympic Games, while California Molefe claimed silver at the 2006 IAAF World Indoor Championships in Moscow.

Mr Sitale further highlighted that Amantle Montsho became Botswana’s first female Olympic finalist during the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, achievements he said laid the foundation for the country’s growing competitiveness in international sport.

Recalling President Mogae’s 2007 State of the Nation Address, Mr Sitale said the late statesman had acknowledged the important role played by sport, arts and culture in national development.

He added that the Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC), now the Botswana National Sport Commission, honoured Dr Mogae with the prestigious Zebras Stripes award, which was at the time reserved for outstanding sports administrators, coaches and athletes. ENDS