Botswana Takes Afternoon Off to Celebrate Olympic Gold

LONDON – In a historic moment for Botswana, President Mokgweetsi Masisi has declared a public holiday on Friday to honor sprinter Letsile Tebogo, who won gold in the men's 200 meters at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Tebogo's remarkable performance, clocking in at 19.46 seconds, not only secured him the top spot but also shattered Botswana's national record of 19.50 seconds. His victory marks a significant milestone as he becomes the first Olympic gold medalist for Botswana and the first African to win gold in the men's 200 meters. The president's announcement of an "afternoon day-off" for all citizens reflects the nation's pride in Tebogo's achievement. Masisi emphasized the importance of celebrating this momentous occasion, stating that it deserves recognition and will be remembered in the history of the Republic. The news sparked widespread jubilation among fans in Botswana and the diaspora, with many celebrating late into the night, proudly displaying the national flag. In a poignant moment, Tebogo dedicated his victory to his late mother, Elizabeth Seratiwa, who passed away in May. He expressed his belief that she would have been overjoyed by his success, showcasing her birth date on his spikes during the race. Tebogo's journey to this triumph includes a notable performance at the 2023 World Championships, where he became the first African to medal in the 100 meters. Botswana, known for its diamond production, now celebrates its first Olympic gold, a significant achievement for a nation of 2.4 million people. Prior to Tebogo's win, Botswana had only secured two Olympic medals since its debut in 1980, both in track events.