09 Apr 2025

Orange Botswana has committed P1million as sponsorship for Orange Phikwe National Marathon to be spread over the next three years.

Orange Botswana chief executive officer, Nene Maiga announced at the launch of the 2025 event in Gaborone on April 8.  The marathon is pencilled for July 26.

The company has been sponsoring the annual event since 2016 and Maiga said the increase in sponsorship reflected its belief in the power of sport to elevate communities and to further boost the Phikwe economy.

 “This is more than just financial backing, we are committed to amplifying the visibility of this marathon,” she said, adding that Orange Botswana was passionate about sport development, viewed it only not as competition, but as a catalyst for healthy living, youth empowerment and community building.

 She also said sport created pathways for individuals to excel, showcase their talents and motivate other companies to do the same, adding that such was the reason the network company supported the marathon since 2016 in partnership with Selebi Phikwe Town Council and the local organising committee.

 Maiga said overtime, the marathon had grown from a local race into a highlight on Botswana's sporting tourism calendar, attracting participants from all corners of the country and beyond, injecting energy and commercial activity into the once-a-mining town and surrounding areas.

 She said their support for the marathon was an extension of the commitment that aligned with a broader mission to make a positive impact in every region they touched.

 “Following the closure of BCL Mine, Selebi Phikwe faced significant challenges. This marathon has since become a vital initiative bringing people together, drawing visitors and driving activity in the local economy,” she said.

The Mayor of Selebi Phikwe, Oageng Makgosa said the town was ready for visitors, assuring them that the town was safe, clean and energised.

 He said the marathon was an economic catalyst, social and sporting transformer that boosted local commerce, providing income for hotels, guesthouses, small businesses and the informal economy.

 He said the event placed Selebi Phikwe on the national and regional sports map, attracting elite and amateur runners from across Botswana and the region.

 He further said it promised youth development, healthy living and community pride.

 The Mayor said youth development encouraged active lifestyles and inspired the next generation of athletes.

 He also said Selebi Phikwe was ready and prepared as far as logistics, infrastructure, safety and entertainment are concerned, adding that the local organising committee would ensure the roads, signage and emergency services were in place.

 He further said the security teams and medical personnel would be on standby to ensure safety and wellbeing of athletes and, needless to say, guests would be taken care of.

 The Mayor said local service providers were ready to offer the best possible experience to the visitors. Ends