Africa-Press – Botswana. The Ministry of Sport and Arts (MoSA) has funded the installation of horse racing starting gates to strengthen the sport across Botswana. This initiative is designed to empower local horse racing talent, inspire excellence in the sport, and unite communities from all corners of the country, including both young and old. On 21 February 2026, the Minister for Sport and Arts, Honourable Jacob Kelebeng, attended the unveiling of the gates in Kokotsha and witnessed the first official horse racing event using the new infrastructure. The gates are intended to address false start issues and improve race management, ensuring fair competition for jockeys and horses alike.
The development of the starting gates reflects MoSA’s commitment to professionalizing and commercializing horse racing in Botswana. Improved race infrastructure is expected to attract a broader audience, increase private sector investment, and create new opportunities for local talent to develop and compete at higher levels. According to Timon Kelebeng, President of the Botswana Horse Racing Association (BHRA), private sector participation is crucial, as the sport appeals to a wide demographic and provides entertainment for everyone. The collaboration between government, industry stakeholders, and communities ensures that horse racing will grow sustainably in the country.
The introduction of the gates is also aimed at improving safety for both horses and jockeys while enhancing the overall race experience for spectators. By addressing operational challenges such as false starts, Botswana’s horse racing events are now better positioned to meet international standards. The initiative marks a significant step toward structured growth in the sport and highlights the potential for horse racing to become a profitable and well-followed national activity. Communities can now come together to celebrate local talent while fostering a culture of sportsmanship and excellence.
The Kokotsha event demonstrates how strategic investments in sports infrastructure can inspire young athletes and strengthen community engagement. With modern starting gates in place, local jockeys can train and compete under improved conditions, raising the overall standard of horse racing in Botswana. MoSA’s support is expected to encourage further investment from private entities, creating a sustainable ecosystem for horse racing and related industries. As more races take advantage of the new gates, the sport will likely gain visibility and attract fans from across the country and beyond. This initiative sets the foundation for long-term growth, showcasing Botswana’s commitment to elevating its horse racing sector.
By integrating community involvement, talent development, and commercial growth, the new starting gates serve as a symbol of progress for horse racing in Botswana. The event at Kokotsha highlighted the importance of bringing together all stakeholders to promote inclusivity and excellence in the sport. The gates are more than just equipment; they represent a broader vision for the industry, one that balances entertainment, competitiveness, and community engagement. As horse racing continues to expand, these investments will help nurture skilled athletes and create lasting opportunities for the country’s sporting landscape. The focus on safety, professionalism, and collaboration ensures that Botswana is on track to establish a thriving and respected horse racing tradition.
