Botswana Karate Association (BOKA) President Mpho Bakwadi said impressive performance at the Zone 6 tournament was one of the highlights of this year but indicated that more needs to be done to improve Karate in the coming year.
Triumphs in 2023:
Speaking in a telephone interview with this publication, Bakwadi said Botswana secured an impressive second place at the Zone 6 tournament.
“This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the formidable competition and South Africa’s larger contingent,” he said. The dedication and prowess of Botswana’s karate practitioners was central to this achievement, according to Bakwadi who added that it showcased the nation’s resilience and competitive spirit.
Bakwadi noted that another strategic move was sending a young team to the Africa Championships in Morocco.
“This provided valuable international exposure to emerging talents. It also contributed to the overall growth and competitiveness of Botswana’s karate presence on the continental stage,” he said.
He noted that the successful hosting of five national section tournaments demonstrated BOKA’s commitment to providing a platform for local talent to flourish.
“These tournaments not only fostered healthy competition but also identified and nurtured potential stars within Botswana’s karate community,” he stated.
Recognising the importance of officials in the sport, Bakwadi said BOKA organised a referees’ course and coaching courses.
“These initiatives aimed to enhance the skills of referees and coaches, ensuring fair and accurate officiating and elevating the overall standard of karate competitions in Botswana,” he noted.
Setbacks and Areas for Improvement:
Bakwadi said that amidst the celebrations, it is crucial to acknowledge areas where improvement is essential.
“One notable setback was the insufficient number of training camps organised throughout the year,” he said highlighting the importance of these camps in honing the skills and fitness levels of athletes, signaling that addressing this shortfall would be a priority in the coming year.
According to Bakwadi, another identified area for development is the need to establish more centers of excellence. “These centers play a pivotal role in providing a conducive environment for high-level training, fostering talent development, and serving as hubs for karate excellence,” noted. “Expanding the network of such centers will undoubtedly contribute to the overall growth and competitiveness of Botswana’s karate landscape.”
Looking Ahead to 2024:
Looking ahead to 2024, Bakwadi said BOKA has set ambitious yet achievable goals.
“Foremost among these objectives is securing more medals at the All-Africa Games in Ghana, aligning with the association’s commitment to continuously raise the bar and compete at the highest levels on the African continent,” he said.
Furthermore, the determination to reclaim the top spot at the Zone 6 tournament reflects BOKA’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
“This not only enhances Botswana’s standing in regional competitions but also serves as a stepping stone for future international success,” he noted.
Bakwadi also noted that the goal to send a large number of athletes to the Africa Championship in Cairo is a strategic move to establish Botswana as a force to be reckoned with in African karate.
“Providing more opportunities for athletes to compete at the highest levels aims to solidify Botswana’s presence on the continental stage and contribute to the overall growth and development of karate in the country,” he noted.
