Botswana senior judo team was unable to secure medals at the Senior African Judo Championships that were held in Nairobi, Kenya from 24th to 26th April 2026 – returning home empty handed.
The championships had attracted a total of 39 African countries and in overall, Botswana finished 21st.
Botswana Judo Federation had sent a team of six judokas consisting of two females and four males. The two females that were part of the team included Botho Babutsi (-48kg) and Neelo Modise (-52kg) while the males included Tumiso Phuthego (-60kg), Jef David (-60kg), Tresh Kgosietsile (-66kg) and Thatayaone Gaosekelwe (-73kg).
The team was under the tutelage of Sensei William Matike as Head Coach and Victoria Leagajang as Team Manager.
Phuthego finished in the seventh place in the men’s 60 kg category. Babutsi, David and Modise were knocked off in round 16 of the competition while Kgosietsile and Gaosekelwe were eliminated in round 32.
In an interview, BJF Marketing Director, Eunice Motswaiso said that though they did not bring home medals they are satisfied with the team’s performance.
“The team delivered a commendable performance. Although the results did not fully go in our favour, most of the matches were highly competitive and came down to minor technical errors. With further technical refinement, these areas can be improved,” she said.
Motswaiso stated that while there is always room for improvement, the athletes demonstrated determination, discipline and growth. She noted that the athletes’ performance continues to put Botswana Judo on the continental map and it is clear that Botswana is becoming a strong competitor in African judo.
According to Motswaiso, the athletes were selected based on their consistent performance in national competitions, training camps, and selection trials organised by the Botswana Judo Federation. She said that the athletes’ discipline, rankings, and readiness at a competitive level earned them spots to represent Botswana at the continental championships.
“The team was well prepared. Under the guidance of our Head National Coach, Sensei William Matike, the athletes underwent structured and intensive training. His experience and track record in developing high-level judokas gave us full confidence in the team’s readiness,” she said.
Motswaiso has highlighted that the competition was extremely important as it served as a key preparation milestone for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. She noted that the competition provided valuable international exposure and highlighted areas for improvement ahead of this major global event.
