In a momentous gesture of national pride, Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi has declared Friday, August 9, 2024, a public holiday to honor Letsile Tebogo’s groundbreaking victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Tebogo made history by becoming the first Motswana and the first African to secure a gold medal in the men’s 200 meters.
The announcement was made through a press release from the Office of the President, highlighting Tebogo’s remarkable achievement on the global stage.
The President’s decision to grant an afternoon off to Batswana and residents reflects the significance of Tebogo’s win as a milestone not only for Botswana but for the entire African continent.
The press release, issued by Permanent Secretary Emma Peloetletse, emphasized the exceptional nature of Tebogo’s accomplishment.
“His Excellency, Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, hereby declares to the nation, that he has found it a fitting tribute to Letsile Tebogo, ‘Botswana’s Sensation,’ to grant Batswana and residents an afternoon day-off on this very day,” the statement read.
Tebogo stunned the athletics world by clocking 19.46 seconds to win gold, outperforming the heavily favored Noah Lyles of the United States, who took bronze with a time of 19.70 seconds.
Kenny Bednarek of the U.S. finished with silver at 19.62 seconds.
President Masisi expressed profound pride and gratitude on behalf of Botswana’s citizens.
In his address, he applauded Tebogo’s dedication and perseverance, and paid tribute to Tebogo’s late mother, Seratiwa, whose memory continues to inspire the athlete.
Tebogo had honored his late mother by displaying her birthdate on his running shoe during the race, symbolizing her enduring presence in his journey.
“The President underscores, recognizes, and acknowledges Letsile’s performance and achievement as markedly outstanding, deserving of a national celebration in a most unique and responsible manner,” the statement added.
