Botswana boxers win three medals in DRC
The team secured two bronze medals and a chance at gold in their return to the IBA Africa Elite Championships.
Botswana boxers returned to the IBA Africa Elite Men’s & Women’s Boxing Championships in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, after a four-year break, securing three medals. Treasure Moremi and Trecier Thipe each won a bronze medal, with Thipe's bout stopped due to a shoulder injury. Kobamelo Molatlhegi was Botswana's sole finalist, competing for a gold medal against the host nation's boxer.
BoBA Publicity Secretary Kabelo Seleka stated the mission was to compete for medals and make a strong statement on the continental stage. "We are not going to Kinshasa simply to participate, we are going there to compete," Seleka had declared before the event. Moremi lost her semifinal by split decision, while Thipe's injury ended her medal hopes. Molatlhegi faced Bofenda Mabala in the final.
Seleka noted that while the medal count is not comparable to previous achievements, the campaign signifies a return to the continental stage and reaching medal positions. He acknowledged room for improvement, stating, "We must be able to compete consistently across all weight categories and convert more of our participation into victories and medals." Seleka also highlighted the need for consistent investment in preparation and athlete development.