Letsile Tebogo Olympics gold medalist feat: Botswana declares holiday to honour country’s first- ever winner
Botswana’s President, Mokgweetsi Masisi, has declared an afternoon day off on Friday, August 9, to honour Letsile Tebogo, the country’s first-ever Olympics Gold medalist in the 200m.
The recognition celebrates Tebogo’s achievement as both the first Motswana and the first African to secure gold in this event.
The President’s honour exemplifies the nation’s respect for Tebogo’s success. While it’s also a tribute to Tebogo’s late mother, it equally marks Botswana’s sporting history.
This was disclosed on Friday in a statement from the president’s X account issued by his Permanent Secretary. The press release was from the office of the president, Republic of Botswana, Gaborone.
It reads: “His Excellency, Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, has announced an afternoon day off for all Batswana and residents today, Friday, August 9, 2024, to honour Letsile Tebogo. Known as ‘Botswana’s Sensation,’ Tebogo made history as the first Motswana and African to win a gold medal in the 200m at the Olympics.”
“President Masisi’s decision reflects the nation’s recognition of Tebogo’s remarkable achievement and the desire to celebrate this historic moment in Botswana’s history. The president’s announcement is a tribute to Tebogo’s outstanding performance and a mark of respect to his late mother,” the statement added.
Masisi congratulated Tebogo and called for a celebration of his historic achievement.
“President Masisi extends his heartfelt congratulations to Letsile Tebogo and encourages all citizens to celebrate this significant milestone with pride and joy.
“A pula e lo nele ka masubelele, Batswana!”
D’GalleryTV gathered that African nations are far behind on the Olympics 2024 medal table as none ranks from 1st to 39th position.
The closest the continent comes is 40th and 41st, having Kenya and South Africa boasting five and four medals, respectively.
Both nations have one gold and one silver each.
Even the Giant of Africa, Nigerian, has yet to register its name on the medal table and ranks 80th alongside five other nations in the same position.
The Paris 2024 Olympics commenced on July 26 and will end on August 11, 2024.
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