Tributes pour in for Talk-Talk
A dark cloud has befallen the country.
The football fraternity, fans and politicians alike have expressed sorrow following a shocking announcement of Tshepo Talk-Talk Motlhabankwe’s untimely demise this past weekend.
Tributes have been pouring in for the 46 year old Digawana born former star as legion of football fans, former team mates, administrators and coaches recall his legendary, thrilling style that left an indelible mark on local football history.
It is without question that, Motlhabankwe is one of the greatest players to have represented the country, having led Botswana to its first ever appearance at the Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) finals in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon back in 2012. 'It is with deep sadness that I share the passing of our brother, coach, and Zebras legend, Tshepo “Talk Talk” Motlhabankwe. Talk Talk was not only a distinguished figure in our football fraternity, but also a respected leader and mentor who proudly represented the Zebras and several Premier League clubs with passion and commitment. His contribution to the game will remain etched in the history of Botswana football. In honour of his life and legacy, we kindly request that all matches played across the country observe a moment of silence prior to kick-off,” a statement from Botswana Football Association (BFA) President Oabile Babitseng confirmed the news on Monday.
“I first heard of the news in one of our group chat (WhatsApp) in the evening. I then started receiving a lot of calls most of which I didn’t take, I did not want to hear the news, I kept hoping and praying that the reports were fake. I checked social media updates frequently and yet hopeful that I would not see or hear of the inevitable—it lasted only about two hours and the news on the passing on of my brother, a friend and above all a great human, were all over the news feed,” former teammate at Mochudi Centre Chiefs did well to hold back his tears as he paid tribute to Motlhabankwe.
Moloi’s sentiments were echoed by another former teammate, Joel Mogorosi, who described Motlhabankwe as a warrior.
“I’ve had so much success with him at Township Rollers, a leader in his own right. One thing which wasn’t clear for all to see was his bravery—he was a lion; a soldier. While in Sudan to play Al Merrikh in the champions league, the situation was tense, some players were visibly trembling from inside out, Talkie managed to calm everyone down to ignore everything else and just focus on making history for the club and the country. His passion for the game was unmatched, we have lost an incredible character and it is still so hard to sit here and talk about him being no-more,” Mogorosi shared on some of his memories with the late Motlhabankwe.
Motlhabankwe was adored in every team he represented, Extension Gunners, Mochudi Centre Chiefs, Gilport Lions and Township, everywhere he played success followed—he will be laid to rest in Digawana tomorrow (Saturday).