BTO Outlines Readiness for World Relays Gaborone 2026

BTO Outlines Readiness for World Relays Gaborone 2026. The Botswana Tourism Organisation (BTO) has presented its comprehensive state of readiness for the upcoming World Athletics Relays Gaborone 2026 during a strategic briefing to the Gaborone City Council (GCC) Full Council. The event is being positioned as a catalyst for tourism growth, destination branding, and international visibility.

In her presentation, Ms. Carol Kgafela, BTO Marketing Manager – Events, highlighted the significance of hosting a globally sanctioned athletics event under World Athletics. She noted the strong alignment with national priorities, emphasizing that the relays support economic diversification through tourism and sport, while advancing Botswana’s MICE and Events Strategy. Kgafela added that the event strengthens destination brand equity and stimulates increased visitor arrivals and expenditure.

Detailing operational responsibilities, Ms. Thatayaone Sebego outlined BTO’s leadership role within the Local Organising Committee (LOC). This includes coordinating accommodation, supporting licensed providers, mobilising private homeowners to expand capacity, and facilitating team arrivals both within and beyond official event dates.

On communications and branding, Ms. Tebogo Ramakgathi, PR & Communications Manager, underscored BTO’s deliberate positioning of sports tourism as a strategic growth pillar. She pointed to the organisation’s robust digital platform, which curates Botswana’s diverse tourism offerings, from accommodation to immersive travel experiences. Ramakgathi also highlighted potential stakeholder collaborations, including partnerships with hotels to revitalise Gaborone’s nightlife and transport initiatives with the Ministry of Transport and Communications to enhance mobility and visitor convenience.

BTO is further collaborating on experiential touchpoints such as the Mayor’s Gala Dinner, digital tourism content, and elite athlete hosting to showcase Botswana as a destination of choice.The presentation affirmed Botswana’s preparedness not only to host a world-class sporting event but also to deliver a holistic destination experience that resonates beyond the track.