27 Oct 2026

Botswana will be represented by a team of six athletes at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar-Senegal, which will run from October 31 to November 13.

Team Botswana will participate in Athletics, Judo, Boxing and Swimming.

The team is made up of Mpho Maano and Geza Reinious from Athletics, Precious Masaba from Boxing, captain Theresa Tagarira from Judo, Melodi Saleshando and Tema Modirelabangwe from Swimming

Speaking at the official send-off ceremony for Team Botswana on Monday, the Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng said investing in sport is a high return strategy for youth empowerment, national health and global brand visibility.

He encouraged corporate entities to partner with the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) and the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) to help young athletes build sustainable professional careers.

Kelebeng said investing in sport is no longer mere charity, but rather a high return investment in youth empowerment, brand visibility, national health and social cohesion.

He challenged the traveling delegation to adhere to strict clean sport principles, sportsmanship and fair play at all times and compete with integrity.

Kelebeng implored the athletes to embody Botho, urging them to let their conduct both on and off the field reflect the foundational humility, dignity and respect of Botswana’s national culture.

He encouraged the team to strive for peak performance by trusting their preparation, executing their skills, and performing on the international stage with confidence.

BNOC president, Tshepo Sitale said they were confident that athletes would represent themselves and the country well.

“We have not set a target for them, our objective is simple, we want them to enjoy the games and give their best,” he said.

Sitale also encouraged parents to support their young children to participate in sport and give them opportunities to develop their talents.

“Instead of allowing them to spend their time playing in the streets, let us guide them toward sport,” he said. ENDS