Botswana’s Boxing Team Excel at Zone IV Championships with Seven Medals
Botswana’s national boxing team achieved notable success at the 2025 Zone IV Championships in Mozambique, winning seven medals, including two golds. In addition to exceptional performances from the men’s team, the women’s division demonstrated significant growth with three medals. The team’s performance places Botswana in second place overall, positioned well for the upcoming IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships.
Following an extended hiatus from international competition, Botswana’s senior national boxing team showcased impressive performance at the 2025 Zone IV Championships held in Mozambique, securing a total of seven medals. The team, comprised of eight boxers, earned two coveted gold medals through the outstanding efforts of Keobakeng Philip in the 60kg category and Kobamelo Molatlhegi in the 48kg division.
The team’s success was further marked by the silver medals obtained by Kutlwano Sekhutlo in the 63kg category and Gift Modise in the 57kg weight class, both of whom reached the finals but ultimately fell short. Additionally, Ribbin Modise, Mmoloki Sekwaipe, and Letlhogonolo Makgaola secured bronze medals by advancing to the semifinals. Notably, Dorcus Tlhabologo was unable to compete due to an injury sustained prior to the championships. The strong showing resulted in three medals being won by female boxers, emphasizing the development of women’s boxing in the country.
In an interview with Voice Sport, Botswana Boxing Association spokesperson Gaone Motshwanaesi expressed her approval of the team’s performance, stating, “Of course, we are impressed with the development of boxers because most of them are new to the team, and they got the much-needed exposure and results.” The collective efforts of the team contributed to Botswana’s second-place finish in the tournament, only behind Mozambique, which represents a step up from the previous championships where the nation secured six medals.
Looking forward, the recent triumph comes just as the ladies’ boxing duo of Gift Modise and Phekie Bele prepare to participate in the IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships 2025 in Belgrade, Serbia, from March 8th to 16th. The expectation is that the success in Maputo will serve as motivation for their quest for glory on the world stage. This championship presents a vital opportunity for local boxers to compete against higher-caliber rivals after having missed entry to major tournaments due to financial constraints in the prior year, specifically the Africa Elite Boxing Championships in October 2024.
In summary, Botswana’s senior national boxing team made a remarkable comeback at the Zone IV Championships, securing seven medals, including two golds. This achievement highlights the team’s resilience and the growth of women’s boxing in the nation. Moreover, it sets a promising stage for the upcoming IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships, where the boxers aim to further excel. Overall, these accomplishments reflect the positive trajectory of Botswana’s boxing scene despite previous challenges.
Original Source: thevoicebw.com
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