Government has defended its P71 million investment into hosting the World Athletics Relays, positioning the expenditure as a strategic move to boost tourism, strengthen sports development and enhance Botswana’s global profile.
Responding to a question in Parliament on 8 April 2026, the Minister of Sport and Arts Honorable Jacob Kelebeng said Cabinet approved P39 million for hosting obligations and a further P32 million for refurbishment of the National Stadium and the University of Botswana Stadium ahead of the 2–3 May competition.
Of the P39 million allocated for event hosting, funds have been directed toward obligations to World Athletics, including a P 6.7 million performance bond and P8.38 million for broadcasting rights. The budget also covers Local Organising Committee operations, including P2.3 million for salaries and P4.95 million for operational expenses.
Infrastructure upgrades form a significant portion of the total investment. Refurbishment of the National Stadium requires P9.63 million, of which P5.93 million has been paid, while the University of Botswana track upgrade requires P15.73 million, with P7.92 million already disbursed.
Additional stadium improvements valued at P10.67 million include air-conditioning installation, electrical works, high-speed internet, stadium painting and seating upgrades, construction of an anti-doping room, ablution upgrades, screen installation and landscaping. The minister stated that P21.52 million remains required to complete preparations.
In outlining the anticipated impact, government described the investment as both immediate and long-term. Hosting the event will allow Botswana’s relay athletes automatic qualification and the opportunity to field more team members than visiting nations. The upgraded facilities are expected to support future generations of athletes and officials.
The event aligns with National Development Plan 12, which identifies sport and arts as enablers of tourism. Government expects the relays to attract athletes, officials and supporters from across the globe, with 56 countries having submitted preliminary entries to date. The anticipated influx is projected to benefit hospitality, transport services, creative industries, vendors and local enterprises.
The relays are expected to be broadcast by more than 150 international television stations, which government says will provide Botswana with unprecedented global visibility.
As part of the event’s legacy programme, the a will train journalists from Botswana and across Africa, providing skills development opportunities linked to the competition.
Government has indicated that a full post-event report covering technical delivery and financial accounting will be presented to Parliament after the event.
