Botswana celebrates Tebogo’s historic Olympic gold victory with public holiday

ZIMSPHERE 

GABORONE, Botswana – In a befitting tribute to Letsile Tebogo's groundbreaking achievement, Botswana's President Mokgweetsi Masisi declared a half-day holiday on Friday. 

This honor celebrates Tebogo's historic win in the Men's 200m final at the Paris Olympics, marking both Africa's and Botswana's first Olympic gold in the event.

Image: AP Photo 

Tebogo, 21, known as "Botswana's Sensation," triumphed over American sprinters Kenny Bednarek and Noah Lyles, clocking an impressive 19.46 seconds. This victory establishes him as the fifth-fastest man in history over the distance. 

Tebogo dedicated his win to his late mother, wearing spikes inscribed with her birth date, following her passing in May.

"His Excellency, Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, hereby declares to the nation, that he has found it a fitting tribute to Mr. Letsile Tebogo, 'Botswana's Sensation', to grant Batswana and residents an afternoon day-off, on this very day, Friday the 9th August, 2024," stated a government press release.

"The decision has been duly made to recognise and honour Letsile Tebogo as the first Motswana and first African to win a Gold Medal for 200m in the history of the Olympics. 

"Furthermore, 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."

President Masisi extended his gratitude to Tebogo's mother, acknowledging the athlete's exceptional performance. 

Masisi on Thursday humorously noted his own hoarse voice from cheering Tebogo's victory during the televised event.