President of Botswana, Mokgweetsi Masisi, has declared today, August 9, 2024, a half-day holiday to celebrate Letsile Tebogo, the first-ever Olympics Gold medalist in the 200m from Botswana.
This special acknowledgment is in recognition of Tebogo’s historic achievement as the first Motswana and African to secure a gold medal in this event.
The President’s declaration signifies the nation’s admiration for Tebogo’s triumph and serves as a tribute to his late mother, commemorating this momentous occasion in Botswana’s sporting history.
A statement released on Friday from the office of the president in Gaborone revealed this gesture.
The official communication from the President’s office read, “His Excellency, Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, the President of Botswana, has announced a half-day holiday for all Batswana and residents today, Friday, August 9, 2024, to honor Letsile Tebogo. Popularly known as ‘Botswana’s Sensation,’ Tebogo created history by clinching the gold medal in the 200m event at the Olympics, being the first Motswana and African to achieve this feat.
President Masisi’s decision underscores the country’s appreciation of Tebogo’s extraordinary accomplishment and the eagerness to celebrate this monumental milestone in Botswana’s narrative. The President’s pronouncement signifies a recognition of Tebogo’s stellar performance and a mark of honor for his late mother.”
Masisi congratulated Tebogo and urged for a joyous celebration of his groundbreaking victory.
The statement concluded by saying, “President Masisi sends his heartfelt felicitations to Letsile Tebogo and urges all citizens to revel in this significant achievement with pride and elation.
“A pula e lo nele ka masubelele, Batswana!”
Africa lags far behind on the Olympics 2024 medal tally according to PUNCH Online, with no country ranking between first and 39th.
The closest African nations, Kenya and South Africa, are placed 40th and 41st respectively, with five and four medals each.
Both countries have secured one gold and one silver medal.
On the other hand, Nigeria is yet to make its mark on the medal board and is currently placed 80th alongside five other nations.
The Paris 2024 Olympics began on July 26 and are scheduled to conclude on August 11, 2024.