– Newly appointed Minister of Sport and Arts, Kelebeng, steps in
– The new government is restoring order, including in sports
– Serufho, BNSC CEO, was summoned to the Ministry this week
– The Botswana Golden Grand Prix will be held on April 12th
In a dramatic turn of events, Botswana’s sport fraternity has observed the recent reinstatement of Glody Dube’s rights to host the prestigious Botswana Golden Grand Prix. This decision comes on the heels of a tumultuous legal and administrative battle that has dominated headlines, as Dube, an Olympic finalist and national hero, fought to reclaim the event from the clutches of the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC). The saga, which has seen the intervention of newly appointed Minister of Sports and Arts Jacob Kelebeng, underscores the broader efforts by the new government to restore integrity and fairness in the nation’s sports administration.
Glody Dube, famed for his performance in the 800 meters finals at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, has been embroiled in a bitter dispute with the BNSC, led by CEO Tuelo Serufho. The controversy erupted when Dube accused the BNSC of attempting to usurp the rights to host the Grand Prix from his company, Golden Door Sports Agency (GDSA), and hand them over to a foreign entity. This move was widely perceived as a political maneuver orchestrated by the previous regime, leading to significant public outcry and support for Dube [
The intervention by Minister Kelebeng marks a bold statement by the newly formed government, which has vowed to rectify past injustices in various sectors, including sports. Kelebeng, who has placed athlete welfare and infrastructure development at the forefront of his agenda, summoned Serufho and other stakeholders to address the controversy. His decisive action reflects a commitment to transparency and fairness, attributes that have been lacking in the administration of Botswana’s sports entities in recent years.
Dube’s journey to reclaim the Grand Prix has been fraught with challenges. Initially, World Athletics revoked the event’s licensing rights from Dube’s agency, citing procedural missteps. Dube, however, contended that the revocation was influenced by misleading information supplied by the BNSC, which questioned his capability to manage such a high-profile event. This led to a legal battle that saw the Gaborone High Court temporarily halting preparations for the Grand Prix.
Despite these setbacks, Dube remained resolute. In an exclusive interview, he expressed his gratitude for the new administration’s support and vowed to deliver an event that would bring Botswana international acclaim. “This is not just about reclaiming a race; it’s about restoring Botswana’s dignity on the world stage,” Dube stated. His determination has resonated with many Batswana who view his struggle as emblematic of the broader fight against corruption and nepotism in the country.
The Botswana Golden Grand Prix, scheduled for April 12, 2024, is more than just a sporting event; it represents a beacon of hope for the country’s athletic future. As part of the World Athletics Continental Tour, it is one of the only two gold status track and field competitions in Africa, and the sole event of its kind in Southern Africa. Its successful execution is critical not only for Dube but also for Botswana’s reputation in international sports.
The path to this moment has not been without its controversies. Allegations of betrayal and greed have clouded the narrative, with claims that Dube initially approached a foreign entity himself to take over the rights. These accusations have further complicated the already complex web of legal and ethical questions surrounding the Grand Prix.
Minister Kelebeng’s role has been pivotal in navigating these murky waters. By reinstating Dube’s rights, he has signaled a new era of governance focused on merit and accountability. This decision aligns with his broader vision of enhancing Botswana’s sports infrastructure and supporting local talent to compete on the global stage. The minister’s actions have been lauded across the sporting community, marking a significant departure from the policies of previous administrations.
As the April 12 date approaches, anticipation builds not only for the athletic feats expected on the track but also for the symbolic victory it represents for Botswana. For Dube, it is a moment of vindication, a testament to his unwavering dedication to his sport and his country. For Botswana, it is an opportunity to showcase its resilience and commitment to justice and excellence in sports.
In the months leading up to the Grand Prix, Dube and his team at Golden Door Sports Agency will face the formidable task of organizing an event that meets international standards. However, with the backing of the current government and support from the local community, there is optimism that the event will proceed without a hitch. The successful hosting of the Botswana Golden Grand Prix will not only be a personal triumph for Dube but also a significant milestone for the nation.
As Botswana prepares to welcome athletes from across the continent and the world, the Grand Prix stands as a testament to the country’s ability to overcome adversity and emerge stronger. It is a story of redemption, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—a narrative that resonates far beyond the borders of this Southern African nation.
