9th August 2023
Own Correspondent
Letsile Tebogo’s dominant performance in the Olympic 200m final in Paris to win a first ever Gold medal for Africa, has fuelled optimism in a landlocked country saddled with rising unemployment, underemployment and inter-generational poverty.
Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, declaration of an afternoon for all public servants as a tribute to the “Botswana Sprint Sensation,” captured the public imagination.
“The President underscores, recognises and acknowledges Letsile’s performance and achievement as markedly outstanding, and deserving of the nation to pause and celebrate him in a most unique, appropriate and responsible manner, that will be etched in the annals of the history of the Republic.
Accordingly, His Excellency President Masisi, wishes to state that, on behalf of all of the citizenry, he applauds Letsile and gives thanks unceasingly to his late mother,” said Emmah A. Peloetletse, Permanent Secretary to the President.
With the Olympics ongoing and celebrations muted people from all walks of life in Botswana and across different generations were overjoyed with what was achieved.
Thabologo Ndzinge, the long standing former Director of the Department of Youth, said “Amazing! Something to make us proud and uplift our Spirit.”
Some found words difficult to capture what they felt and reflected its historical importance.
Gorata Gabaraane, Chief Executive Officer of Fairground Holding, said “Wow, just awesome.”
There was a sense of gratitude felt by senior civil servants for lifting the country’s profile.
Pearl Matome, formerly Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs, said “Yebo! So grateful to the young man.”
There was a collective sense in which Tebogo’s performance pulled together country in celebration.
“He has brought the nation together in a difficult time,” said Kesego Tshekedi, said a self employed informal trader. Whilst another stressed that sports should now be recognized as a job creator.
“It is an unconventional way of creating jobs. He came out of nowhere and became something,” said Onnalenna Ranyere, Creative Director of Okavango gear apparel label.
She said, “It will inspire kids all over the country to start believing it is possible.”
