Letsile Tebogo: Botswana's Sprint Sensation Finally Receives $170,000 Reward After Historic Olympic Triumph

Botswana's Olympic gold medallist, Letsile Tebogo, has officially received the keys to a new house, a reward from the government for his historic victory at the Paris 2024 Games.

The Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) confirmed on Tuesday that the 200m champion inspected his newly constructed three-bedroom home. The property, valued at $170,000 (more than Ksh 22 million), was fully funded by the state to honour his remarkable achievement.

According to the BAA, the house was built from the ground up by developer Time Projects. Letsile Tebogo was personally involved in the process, selecting both the location and the architectural design for his new residence.

Construction commenced following a groundbreaking ceremony in October, which the federation hailed as "the start of an enduring legacy project for the young champion."

Letsile Tebogo's success in Paris was not limited to his individual sprint. He was also a key member of the men's 4x400m relay team that secured a silver medal. For this achievement, he and his teammates were also rewarded.

"Each member of the silver-winning relay team, including Tebogo, received a two-bedroom apartment, which they have already moved into," the association stated as quoted by My Joy Online.

The incentive program was a collaborative effort led by the Ministry of Sports and Arts, the Botswana National Sports Commission (BNSC), and the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC).

Officials described the gesture as a demonstration of "the government’s continued commitment to celebrating and rewarding sporting excellence."

They hope it will serve as "an inspiration to the next generation of sportsmen and women who aspire to represent the nation at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games and beyond."

Several dignitaries, including Minister of Sports and Arts Jacob Kelebeng, BNSC Chairperson Marumo Morule, and BNOC President Tshepo Sitale, attended the handover ceremony.

Letsile Tebogo's family was also present for the occasion, which the BAA said highlighted the "collective pride and unity shared across Botswana’s sporting fraternity."

Meanwhile, at the Paris Olympic Games, Letsile Tebogo clocked an African record time of 19.46 seconds ahead of Kenneth Bednarek (USA), who was second with 19.62. Four-time world champion Noah Lyles (USA) sealed the podium with 19.70.