In a historic move, Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi has declared an afternoon day-off on August 9, 2024, to celebrate the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medalist, Letsile Tebogo. Tebogo made history by winning the 200m gold medal, becoming the first Motswana and African to achieve this feat.
The President’s announcement recognizes Tebogo’s remarkable achievement and pays tribute to his late mother. The statement from the President’s office read, “President Masisi extends his heartfelt congratulations to Letsile Tebogo and encourages all citizens to celebrate this significant milestone with pride and joy.”
This celebration comes as African nations lag behind in the Olympics 2024 medal table, with Kenya and South Africa ranking 40th and 41st, respectively. Nigeria has yet to register a medal and ranks 80th alongside five other nations.
The Paris 2024 Olympics, which began on July 26, will conclude on August 11, 2024. Botswana’s declaration of a half-day holiday demonstrates the nation’s pride and joy in Tebogo’s achievement, marking a historic moment in the country’s sporting history.
