World Relays: The race has begun for Botswana to leave a footprint on the global map 

Sunday Standard World Relays: The race has begun for Botswana to leave a footprint on the global map  The Minister of Sport and Arts, Jacob Kelebeng has said hosting the World Relays will position Botswana as a country capable of staging major international events. He noted that the event will give the country global visibility and open doors for more international competitions in the future. “The World Relays will boost the country’s profile and position it for future sporting events. Botswana will also be seen as a tourist destination of choice,” said Kelebeng. He encouraged Batswana to buy tickets in large numbers and come out to support local athletes. The minister said strong local support will send a clear message to the world that Botswana is a passionate and supportive sporting nation. “We want the world to see that we support our athletes. Let us fill the stadium and create a good atmosphere,” he said. Kelebeng added that the timing of the World Relays is important for the country. Botswana is preparing to celebrate 60 years of independence and 60 years of its diamond industry. He said the sporting event fits well into these national milestones. The minister acknowledged the role played by Debswana as the main sponsor of the event. He also recognised other diamond companies for their contribution in ensuring that the event is successful and well organised. “Debswana and other partners have played a key role in making sure the World Relays is not only successful but also hosted in a proper and professional manner,” he said. Kelebeng said the World Relays will leave a lasting legacy for the country. He pointed out that facilities such as the National Stadium and the University of Botswana Stadium have been refurbished. The upgrades are set to benefit future sporting events. “The infrastructure improvements mean that in future, we will only need minor adjustments to meet international standards, whether for athletics, football or other sports,” he said. The minister also highlighted the economic benefits of hosting the event. He said sectors such as hospitality, transport, food outlets and tourism will benefit from the influx of visitors. “Hosting the World Relays supports economic diversification. Many businesses will benefit, from hotels to transport operators and local vendors,” he said. Kelebeng further noted that the event will inspire young people to take sport seriously. He said the presence of top international athletes will motivate local youth to work hard and pursue their dreams. “We expect the event to be hosted properly and to open doors for future international events. We have to make sure we impress the world,” he said. The minister also called on institutions such as Botswana Tourism Organisation and Botswana Investment and Trade Centre to take advantage of the event to market the country. “These institutions must use this platform to showcase what Botswana can offer in tourism and investment,” he said. Kelebeng also confirmed that he has invited South Africa’s Minister of Sport to attend the event as part of efforts to strengthen relations between the two countries. “We have good bilateral relations with South Africa in sport, and this invitation helps to strengthen that relationship,” he said. The post World Relays: The race has begun for Botswana to leave a footprint on the global map  first appeared on Sunday Standard and is written by Duncan Kgangkenna