Botswana ready to serve Africa’s biggest badminton stage

Botswana is in the final stages of preparations to host the Badminton All Africa Championships 2026, with organisers expressing confidence that the country is ready to deliver a tournament that meets continental standards and leaves a lasting legacy for the sport. The championships will be held from Feb. 9 to 15, 2026, at the Royal Aria in Tlokweng, a venue that has rapidly become a focal point of Botswana’s indoor sports ambitions. The Botswana Badminton Association (BBA) said operational readiness has entered a decisive phase, with administrative and technical teams working intensively to ensure the smooth delivery of the event. “Preparations are fully on track,” said BBA public relations officer Thobo Tshosa. “We have entered the final operational phase, with the tournament set to run from Feb. 9 to 15, 2026. Our administrative and technical teams are working around the clock to ensure every detail, from transport to court officiating, meets continental standards.” A total of 21 African nations have registered for the championships, including traditional badminton powerhouses Egypt, Nigeria and South Africa. Organisers say the level of participation underscores both the sporting and diplomatic significance of the event for Botswana. “A major milestone is the successful registration of 21 participating nations,” Tshosa said. “Additionally, securing the Royal Aria as our primary venue and launching our long-term athlete development program in early 2025 have been pivotal steps in our roadmap.” The BBA is positioning the championships as more than a competitive event, describing them as a strategic investment in Botswana’s sporting ecosystem. Officials say exposure to elite-level tournament organisation will benefit local administrators, officials and volunteers beyond the event itself. “Hosting this event is a significant honor,” Tshosa said. “It serves as a catalyst for local development by exposing our officials and administrators to international tournament standards. It also positions Botswana as a premier destination for sports tourism, proving that we have the infrastructure and trust required to host major African sporting events.” Organisers also expect the championships to boost participation at grassroots level. With Africa’s leading players competing in singles, doubles and mixed doubles, the BBA believes the event will inspire a new generation of Batswana athletes. “We expect a surge in interest at the grassroots level,” Tshosa said. “Seeing Africa’s best players compete in Gaborone across all categories will inspire the next generation of Batswana players. It elevates the profile of the Botswana Badminton Association and strengthens our ties with the 20 other participating African nations.” Confidence in the event has been bolstered by the choice of Royal Aria as the main venue. The facility recently hosted the Botswana International 2025, which served as a test event and its first tournament at that level. “The Royal Aria is well prepared to accommodate the intense schedule of both team and individual events,” Tshosa said. “We are ready to host the athletes and officials arriving from across the continent and ensure they experience the best of Botswana’s hospitality.” Attention will also be on Team Botswana, which has already been named and is reported to be in strong physical and mental condition ahead of the championships. “The team is in excellent spirits and physically sharp,” Tshosa said. “We have selected a robust squad.” The men’s team will be led by Tefo Kabomo, alongside Godknows Ketlhabanetswe, Tshepo Perekisi, Tumelo Moilwa and Tsamorena Kgosidialwa. The women’s team includes Keletso Ntebela, Tsholofelo Willie, Tebogo Ndzinge and Tessa Kabelo. The squad is coached by Oreeditse Thela, with support from international coach Keita Fukuda. Preparation has been extensive. Since early 2025, the athletes have taken part in local training camps and regional competitions aimed at raising performance standards. The team is currently attending a high-performance training camp in Hyderabad, India, running from Jan. 15 to Feb. 5. “Our athletes have undergone a rigorous regimen since early 2025,” Tshosa said. “Most notably, the team is currently in Hyderabad, India, for a high-performance training camp. India is a global powerhouse in badminton, and this exposure is designed to give our players a competitive edge just days before the championships begin.” For Botswana, the championships represent more than medal prospects. Organisers say the event is a statement of intent about the country’s place in African sport. “This is a historic moment for Botswana sport,” Tshosa said. “To our fans, come out in February and be the extra player for Team Botswana. To our stakeholders and potential sponsors, this is an opportunity to align your brand with excellence, unity and a fast-growing sport.” As the countdown continues, attention will turn to Tlokweng in February, where Botswana aims to demonstrate that careful planning and ambition can deliver a championship worthy of the continent.

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