In a rain-soaked stadium in Tokyo on September 21, 2025, the world witnessed history. Botswana’s men’s 4x400m relay team Lee Bhekempilo Eppie, Letsile Tebogo, Bayapo Ndori, and Busang Collen Kebinatshipi stunned the athletics world by defeating the mighty United States to claim gold at the World Athletics Championships. It was more than just a victory. By crossing the finish line first, Botswana became the first African nation ever to win the men’s 4x400m relay at the global stage. South Africa secured bronze, making it an even prouder day for the continent.

President’s Tribute: A Holiday for Heroes

Back home, celebrations erupted across the nation. President Duma Boko, speaking from New York where he was attending the United Nations General Assembly, declared September 29 as a public holiday in recognition of this achievement. The date was deliberately chosen a day before Botswana’s official Independence Day on September 30 to link the country’s sovereignty with its newfound sporting glory. “Congratulations, my boys!” President Boko said during a video call with the relay team. His excitement was echoed in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter) “Botswana’s natural diamonds are not just in the ground; they are our World Champion athletes!” By declaring a holiday, the president ensured the entire nation would pause, reflect, and celebrate this extraordinary moment.

Breaking America’s Dominance

The victory carried an extra layer of significance. The United States had won the men’s 4x400m relay ten consecutive times at the World Championships. Botswana’s triumph was not just about speed it was about breaking a legacy of dominance. The race itself was dramatic. Running the final leg, Collen Kebinatshipi, who had already clinched gold in the individual 400m earlier in the championship, powered through in the driving rain. His last 100 meters sealed the win, sparking jubilation not just in Tokyo, but across Botswana and Africa.

A Rising Sporting Nation

Botswana’s success at the World Championships was historic in more ways than one. The southern African nation finished fifth in the overall medal standings its best-ever performance with two golds, one silver, and one bronze. Only the US, Kenya, the Netherlands, and Canada finished higher. This marks a dramatic rise for a country of just over 2.5 million people, better known for its wildlife tourism and diamonds than for sporting achievements. Athletics, however, has become a source of national identity and pride.

The Power of Dreams

Behind the medals and headlines lies a deeply human story. Botswana’s athletes train in challenging conditions compared to the world’s top athletics nations. They do not have the same resources, yet they rely on determination, and community support. For many citizens, these victories are about more than sport they represent hope. In towns and villages across Botswana, young children now see athletes like Tebogo and Kebinatshipi as heroes who prove that global success is possible, regardless of origin. President Boko captured this emotion perfectly, saying the moment was “electric” and symbolic of Botswana’s rising stature on the global stage.

A National Celebration with Global Impact

The declaration of September 29 as a public holiday is more than symbolic. It ensures that the team’s triumph becomes  in national memory alongside Independence Day. The back-to-back holidays will create an annual double celebration of freedom and achievement. Globally, the victory shines a spotlight on Africa’s growing influence in athletics beyond middle- and long-distance running.

With the 2026 Commonwealth Games and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, the team’s victory in Tokyo could mark the start of a golden era for Botswana athletics. For now, however, the country will pause on September 29. Streets will be filled with flags, songs, and stories of how a small African nation defied the odds to defeat the giants of track and field. It is a moment of unity, pride, and inspiration, proof that when passion meets hard work, even the smallest nations can leave the biggest mark.