Orange Botswana donates to Phikwe Schools ...And launches 2026 Phikwe National Marathon

 

Orange Botswana this week reaffirmed its commitment to sport, education and community development with the official launch of the 2026 Orange Phikwe National Marathon and a donation of educational resources worth P300,000 to schools in Selebi-Phikwe.

The telecommunications company made the announcement during a press conference in the northern town, where it also handed over learning equipment to Selebi-Phikwe Primary School and Selebi-Phikwe Senior Secondary School as part of its broader strategy to combine sport development with education and digital inclusion.

Orange Botswana has been the main sponsor of the Orange Phikwe Marathon since 2016, playing a key role in growing the race into one of Botswana’s notable community sporting events. Over the years, the marathon has attracted runners from across the country while also stimulating economic activity in the Selebi-Phikwe area through increased demand for accommodation, transport services, food vendors and other small businesses during race weekend.

Speaking at the event, Orange Botswana Public Relations and Communications Manager, Tebogo Nadisah, said the company views its partnerships as an opportunity to drive long-term social and economic impact.

“Orange Botswana believes that meaningful partnerships go beyond sponsorship. They create opportunities that allow communities to grow and thrive,” she said. “Through the Orange Phikwe Marathon and our education initiatives, we are supporting both healthy lifestyles and the development of future generations.”

Organisers also confirmed that the 2026 Orange Phikwe National Marathon will be held on 1 August 2026, with registrations opening on 10 March 2026.

Preparations for the upcoming race are already underway, with organisers indicating that improvements in logistics and race coordination are planned to attract more participants from across Botswana and the broader southern African region.

Beyond the marathon, Orange Botswana also used the platform to support local schools through education-focused initiatives.

Eight whiteboards were donated to Selebi-Phikwe Primary School to improve classroom learning environments. Through the Orange Botswana Foundation, the company also pledged additional support including a Digital

Schools Kit for the primary school to enhance digital learning and an all-in-one printer and photocopying machine for Selebi-Phikwe Senior Secondary School in recognition of the institution’s strong academic performance nationally.

Orange Botswana People and Social Impact Director, Modiri Nlanda, said the Foundation remains focused on initiatives that improve access to education and promote digital inclusion.

“The Orange Botswana Foundation focuses on programmes that help bridge the digital divide and expand access to quality education,” she said. “By supporting schools with both learning resources and digital tools, we aim to create opportunities that enable young people to participate confidently in an increasingly digital world.”

Nlanda added that investing in education forms part of the Foundation’s broader effort to strengthen communities by promoting learning, social integration and long-term development.

As preparations for the 2026 race gather momentum, Orange Botswana emphasised that the marathon continues to serve as an important platform for community engagement, economic participation and youth inspiration.

“Events like the Orange Phikwe Marathon demonstrate how consistent investment can create meaningful community impact,” Nadisah said. “From inspiring athletes to empowering schools, the marathon continues to play a vital role in the growth and pride of the Selebi-Phikwe community.”