People in Botswana are expressing their outrage on social media following the government’s request for citizens to donate funds to reward the country’s historic gold-medal winning Olympic team. The government announced on Monday that this initiative aims to allow citizens to “contribute rewards to our champions” in recognition of their achievements.
Letsile Tebogo made history by becoming the first African athlete to win gold in the men’s 200m event at the Olympics, marking Botswana’s first-ever gold medal victory. However, the government’s call for donations has overshadowed celebrations for some, leading many to question why taxpayer money isn’t being allocated to honor the Olympians.
“We are already paying tax; the government should allocate money from its budget to support our champions,” voiced one frustrated citizen on social media. Despite requests for comment, the government has not responded to inquiries regarding their own contributions to the reward fund.
Others voiced their solidarity with the athletes but highlighted their own financial struggles. “I would love to donate in support of the boy’s historic achievement, but unfortunately, I’m currently unemployed and burdened by student loans,” shared another individual.
Calls for government officials to lead by example have emerged, with one suggestion urging cabinet members to donate 25% of their salaries towards the fund. In contrast, many neighboring African nations have a tradition of rewarding Olympic gold medalists with significant cash prizes or assets such as homes.
While Botswana enjoys one of the highest incomes per capita in Africa, it faces significant challenges with youth unemployment. The nation, rich in diamond resources, has recently seen a decline in diamond revenue, prompting the government to implement spending cuts.
Despite the contention surrounding the funding request, there are voices in favor of the initiative. One enthusiastic supporter proposed expanding the fund to allow contributions from across Africa, stating, “Open it to all Africans; I want to contribute from Kenya.”
Tebogo not only set an African record with a time of 19.46 seconds in the 200m but also secured a silver medal in the men’s 4x400m relay with his teammates. On Tuesday, tens of thousands gathered at the National Stadium in Gaborone to celebrate the Olympic team’s return home, as President Mokgweetsi Masisi declared it a half-day holiday to honor their achievements.
