Botswana unveils final 25 man squad for African Championships showdown in Accra

...Letsile Tebogo and Collen Kebinatshipi not in the roster

By Maxwell Kumoye

Botswana has officially unveiled its final 25 man squad for the upcoming CAA Senior African Championships, with the nation’s top track and field stars set to compete in Accra, Ghana from May 12–17, 2026.

The announcement, made by the Botswana Athletics Association, signals the start of an intensive build-up phase, as the full squad assembled for national camp on May 6.

The camp is expected to fine-tune preparations across sprint, middle-distance, jumps, and hurdles events as Botswana aims for a strong continental showing.

Leading the men’s team are sprinters such as Phaezel Selepe and Kevin Lobalatang, both doubling in the 100m and 200m, alongside quarter-milers Lee B. Epple and Justice Oratile, who bring impressive sub-45-second credentials into the championships.

In the field events, high jumpers Tswanello Akobe and Taolo Lesole add depth, while Kemorena Tisang headlines the hurdles squad with entries in both the 110m hurdles and 400m hurdles.

On the women’s side, Botswana will rely on a blend of speed and endurance.

Boitshepo Kelapile, Katiego Kaisara, and Lone Madzimule form a competitive 100m trio, while Obakeng Kamberuka and Naledi Monthe are set to double in the 200m and 400m.

Middle-distance runner Oratile Nowe will shoulder expectations in the 800m and 1500m, while Tshegofatso Bojosi (long jump) and Gotitseone Joel (high jump) spearhead the field events.

The team will be missing heavyweights like 22 year old Letsile Tebogo and Collen Kebinatshipi who will not be in the Ghanaian capital.

The technical team, led by head coach Meleko Ndolo and manager Keabetswe Friday, is tasked with ensuring the athletes peak at the right moment.

With experienced support staff across coaching, physiotherapy, and athlete management, Botswana’s delegation appears well-structured for the continental test ahead.

In a major boost to team morale ahead of the championships, President Duma Boko met with Team Botswana following their remarkable performance at the recently concluded World Athletics Relays.

The meeting underscored the nation’s growing confidence in its athletics programme and served as motivation for the athletes as they prepare for continental competition.

As the countdown begins, anticipation is building among fans and stakeholders, with a rallying call for national support echoing across the athletics community.

Botswana will be aiming not just for participation, but for podium finishes as they take on Africa’s best in Accra.

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