Gov't commits P100M towards World Relays

The Government of Botswana has committed close to P100 million towards preparations for the upcoming World Athletics Relays, according to Local Organising Committee (LOC) chairperson, Professor Martin Mokgwathi.Providing an update on the state of readiness this week, Mokgwathi revealed that significant portions of the funding have already been allocated to key infrastructure and operational requirements ahead of the global showpiece, which will be hosted in Gaborone from 3-5 May 2026.“Government has already committed close to P100 million towards the relays,” he revealed to this publication. “So far, P32 million has been directed towards refurbishing the two tracks, while approximately P27 million has been used for the refurbishment of the two stadiums. A further P39 million has been set aside to meet financial obligations to World Athletics, some of which has already been paid.”Mokgwathi emphasised that while government has played a pivotal role in funding the initial phases, no additional direct financial injections are expected moving forward. Instead, the current focus is on completing the remaining refurbishment works to ensure facilities meet international standards.“We are not expecting any more funding from government directly. What they are doing now is to complete the refurbishment of the stadium,” he explained. “We have also received paint from Dulux as adonation, and this will be used to finalise the painting of the stadium. The Department of Corrections and the City Council have also pledged their support in this regard.”Despite the substantial government contribution, Mokgwathi acknowledged that the Debswana World Athletics Relays Gaborone 2026 still requires additional financial backing. He noted that sponsorship remains open, although timelines are dictated by World Athletics regulations.“The event still needs funding, however, we are governed by World Athletics in terms of when to close the sponsorship window, as this allows them to create and develop advertising spaces within the stadium. We have had other sponsors come on board, but details will only be made public during the official launch of their sponsorship.”Meanwhile a significant boost to the event is expected this week, as Stanbic Bank Botswana is set to officially announce its role as the Official Event Supporter (Finance) for the relays. The announcement, is described as a landmark moment for both sport and business in Botswana.Efforts to obtain further comment from government officials proved unsuccessful. Nancy Chengeta, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Sports and Arts (MOSA), referred enquiries to her deputy, Boineelo Hardy, who in turn redirected the publication back to the LOC chairperson.Botswana is set to host the prestigious relays event for the first time, marking a significant milestone for the country’s athletics profile and its growing reputation as a host of international sporting competitions.

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Gov't commits P100M towards World Relays