13 Jul 2026

Nothing beats winning a competition fair and square.

This was the message from the Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng, to the 25 athletes who will represent Botswana at the Commonwealth Games hosted in Glasgow, Scotland.

Kelebeng recognised the important of winning but said, it should be done with integrity, discipline and humility, always adhering to the principles of clean sport and fair play.

“Let your conduct on and off the field reflect the values of Botho that define us as a people. Win with humility, fall short with dignity, respect your competitors, and always remember that you are ambassadors of Botswana,” he said.

Kelebeng said the country continued to assert itself as growing powerhouse in track and field events. 

It is clear that the world has learned to respect the name Botswana therefore, as the athletes depart to Glasgow to solidify that reputation, they must demonstrate what the country is capable of and edge out the very best in the world, Kelebeng said.

He said over the years, the government had recognised the important of sport as a strategic sector worthy of sustained investment and that meant investing money and resources in sport.

“We will continue to invest in our athletes, coaches and support personnel because sustained success should never be left to chance, it must be built through vision, preparation and hard work,” said Kelebeng.

Botswana National Olympic Committee president, Tshepo Sitale, said they were confident that the team they had assembled would bring good results. “But as you will be competing, enjoy yourself, no pressure. Do it for yourselves and the country,” he said.

Sitale said the competition was a strategic mission and were halfway into the Olympics

The games start on July 23 and will conclude August 2. 

Botswana will compete in five codes: athletics, boxing, swimming, lawn bowls and judo. ENDS