Botswana to Host Historic 2028 African Senior Athletics Championships
Gaborone, Botswana — In a landmark decision for African sports, Botswana has been confirmed as the host nation for the 25th African Senior Athletics Championships in 2028. This will be the first time the country stages the prestigious continental event, cementing its growing reputation as a hub for major athletics competitions.
The hosting rights were initially secured in 2024 after the Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) presented a strong bid to the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) during a council meeting in Accra, Ghana, on May 11. Acting BAA President Oabona Theetso expressed pride in the achievement, emphasizing the country’s readiness to deliver a world-class event.
“We are honored that the CAA has entrusted Botswana with this responsibility,” Theetso said. “This is our first time hosting the African Senior Championships, and we are determined to meet and exceed expectations.”
Building on Past Success
Botswana’s selection follows its successful hosting of the Debswana World Athletics Relays Gaborone 26, which earned widespread acclaim for its smooth organization and enthusiastic crowds. Theetso confirmed that lessons from that event will shape preparations for the 2028 championships.
“Hosting the World Relays was a major milestone, and we’ll use that experience to raise the bar even higher,” he said. “The world will be watching, and we intend to prove that Botswana is a reliable destination for top-tier athletics.”
The 2028 event will hold special significance as it coincides with a packed athletics calendar, including the World Relays in the Bahamas—a key qualifier for the Los Angeles Olympics. The African Senior Championships will also serve as a qualifying platform for both the World Relays and the Olympics, though exact dates are still being finalized.
Showcasing Botswana’s Talent and Culture
Beyond the track, Botswana plans to leverage its star athletes—particularly its world-renowned men’s 4x400m relay team—as ambassadors for the event. Theetso highlighted the broader goal of using sports to promote Botswana’s culture and heritage on the global stage.
“This isn’t just about athletics; it’s an opportunity to showcase our nation’s spirit and hospitality,” he said. “We want visitors to leave with unforgettable memories of Botswana.”
Preparations will ramp up in the coming months, with a Local Organizing Committee set to be established by the end of the year. The BAA will collaborate closely with the government and private sector to ensure seamless execution.
A Milestone for Southern Africa
The 2028 championships will mark the first time the event returns to Southern Africa since 2016, when Durban, South Africa, played host. Botswana’s selection underscores the region’s growing influence in African athletics and sets the stage for a new era of sporting excellence.
As anticipation builds, Theetso remains confident in Botswana’s ability to deliver a championship that will make the continent proud. “We won’t drop the ball,” he vowed. “This is our moment to shine.”
— Reported by Nexio News
