04 Aug 2026

Preparations are underway for the 2026 Independence Kids Run, which is set to take place September 26 in Gaborone’s Central Business District as Botswana marks its 60th Independence Anniversary.

The event builds on the success of the Absa Summer Kids Marathon that took place April and attracted more than 1 800 children from across the country, a sign among young people of the growing enthusiasm for sport, healthy living and community participation.

“The Independence Kids Run aims to build on that momentum, by bringing together children, families, schools, corporate partners and the wider community in a vibrant celebration of Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee,” said one of the organisers, Moagi Madisa.

Beyond promoting physical fitness and healthy lifestyles, the event seeks to instil patriotism, national pride and social inclusion through sport.

Madisa said preparations were progressing smoothly to ensure participants enjoyed a safe, exciting and memorable event worthy of the country’s historic milestone.

“As we celebrate 60 years of independence, the Independence Kids Run offers another opportunity to unite families, honour our nation’s journey and inspire the next generation through healthy recreation,” he said.

The race forms part of the wider programme commemorating Botswana’s 60th Independence celebrations and is expected to attract thousands of participants and spectators to the capital.

Madisa appealed to corporate organisations, development partners and community stakeholders to support the initiative through sponsorships and partnerships, noting that the event contributed to child development, wellness and national unity.

He said celebrating Botswana’s 60th Independence aligned with the aspirations of Vision 2036, which recognised sport as a key driver of national unity, social cohesion and pride.

Madisa added that investing in children through sporting initiatives laid the foundation for a sustainable sports industry while supporting Vision 2036’s goal of positioning sport as a contributor to Botswana’s Gross Domestic Product and producing elite athletes capable of competing successfully on the international stage. ENDS