Sports in Botswana
Sports ignite passion and unity in Botswana, from the roar of football stadiums to the global stage of Olympic tracks. With stars like Letsile Tebogo redefining sprinting and traditional games like morabaraba fostering community, Botswana’s sporting spirit blends heritage with ambition.
Explore Botswana’s Sports
Popular Sports
Football
The nation’s favorite, football unites fans through the Botswana Premier League. Clubs like Township Rollers and Gaborone United draw thousands, while the Zebras compete in CAF qualifiers, recently securing a spot in Afcon 2025.
Athletics
Botswana shines in track, with Letsile Tebogo’s 2024 Olympic 200m gold and 4x400m relay silver. Events like the FNB Golden Grand Prix showcase rising stars, aiming for a Diamond League.
Cricket
Cricket is growing, with the Botswana Cricket Association hosting domestic leagues and international matches. The national team competes in ICC Africa events, gaining regional traction.
Softball
Popular in schools and communities, softball thrives in urban centers like Gaborone. The Botswana Softball Association supports men’s and women’s teams in regional tournaments.
Traditional Sports
Morabaraba
A strategic board game played with stones, morabaraba sharpens critical thinking. Common among Tswana and Kalanga, it’s a staple at rural gatherings, blending competition and culture.
Diketo
This coordination game, played by tossing stones, is popular among children, especially girls. It hones dexterity and is a playful link to Botswana’s heritage.
Kgati
A rhythmic skipping game using ropes, koi is often performed by girls in groups. Accompanied by songs, it fosters teamwork and is a cultural highlight at festivals.
Notable Achievements
Botswana’s sports legacy soared in 2024 when Letsile Tebogo won the nation’s first Olympic gold in the 200m, setting an African record of 19.46 seconds, and a silver in the 4x400m relay. Nijel Amos secured an 800m silver at the 2012 Olympics, while the Zebras qualified for Afcon 2025, their second appearance, after a draw against Egypt. The 4x100m relay team set a national record of 38.19s in 2024, eyeing Olympic qualification. These milestones, celebrated with national pride, inspire youth and elevate Botswana’s global profile.
“Athletics is our pride—it brings medals and hope to Botswana.” — Letsile Tebogo, 2024
Recent Trends & News
FNB Golden Grand Prix
The 2025 FNB Botswana Golden Grand Prix,took place in April, prepared the national stadium for world-class athletics, with aspirations to host a Diamond League.
Youth Engagement
Tebogo’s Olympic success has spurred youth programs, with schools expanding athletics and football training to nurture future talent.