The Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) recently hosted a joint send-off ceremony for the national athletics and para-athletics teams set to compete in the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, and the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, India, respectively.
The two teams departed this past Saturday for a week-long training camp in South Korea before proceeding to their final destinations. The event marks a significant milestone in BAA’s continued efforts to foster inclusivity and unity in sport across all segments of society.
Speaking at the event, para-athletics team manager Boikanyo Ratlou lauded the BAA for its inclusive approach and commitment to equal representation in athletics.
“We should make time to watch and support the disabled,” Ratlou emphasized. “We’ve made great strides in terms of inclusivity by incorporating para-athletics into our championships. You are ambassadors of Batswana. These championships are not only about competition but also preparation for the World Relays next year and promoting sport tourism.”
Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) Chief Executive Officer Stephen Makuke echoed the sentiment, applauding the BAA’s initiative as a strong symbol of unity in sport.
“This joint send-off is a true reflection of inclusivity,” said Makuke. “BAA has shown that sport knows no boundaries. You carry the hopes of the nation — a representation of Botswana’s resilience and strength. Compete with honor, and let discipline guide you. As we say in Setswana, kgetsi ya tsie e kgonwa ke go tshwaraganelwa — unity is power. This journey is more than medals; it is about opening doors to greater opportunities.”
Botswana’s athletics contingent includes Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo, along with Bayapo Ndori, Leungo Scotch, and Oratile Nowe, among others. The athletes are expected to fly the national flag high and build on the country’s growing reputation in global athletics.
The BAA’s inclusive send-off ceremony represents a progressive stride toward uniting athletes of all abilities, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to equality and excellence in sport.
