O-Green has officially unveiled a major sponsorship package aimed at supporting athletes, volunteers, and the overall success of the Debswana World Relays Gaborone 2026. The announcement signals a strong commitment to sports development and event excellence in Botswana. The presentation took place at the Ministry of Sports and Arts, where stakeholders gathered to outline the scope of the initiative. The sponsorship focuses not only on the upcoming competition but also on long-term athletic development in the country. This move positions O-Green as a key private sector partner in strengthening Botswana’s sports ecosystem.
O-Green Project Director Dahasur Tashpulatov explained that the sponsorship is designed to improve both competition readiness and the overall experience of the event. He emphasized that athlete welfare remains a central priority of the package. One of the key components includes fully equipped refreshment stations that will be placed at strategic points during the relays. These stations will provide hydration and energy support for athletes and volunteers throughout the competition. The goal is to ensure that performance is not compromised by basic logistical challenges.
Another major feature of the sponsorship is the introduction of a solar-powered photo zone. This installation will be manufactured locally in Maun, supporting domestic innovation and sustainability efforts. The use of solar energy reflects a growing focus on environmentally responsible event infrastructure. It also highlights the importance of involving local communities in large-scale sporting events. By combining technology and sustainability, the initiative adds a modern dimension to the relays experience.
O-Green will also provide branded infrastructure, including banners, flags, and barriers, to enhance both organisation and visibility at the venue. These elements are designed to create a professional and structured event environment. Clear branding and proper event management tools help improve navigation for athletes, officials, and spectators. They also contribute to the overall image and presentation of the competition on an international level. This level of preparation is essential for hosting world-class athletics events.
Support for athletes remains a core focus of the sponsorship package. Botswana’s national team will receive branded Puma training uniforms designed for use beyond the competition period. This ensures that athletes continue to benefit from high-quality sportswear during their training routines. In addition, top-performing athletes will be rewarded with Garmin smartwatches as part of performance recognition. These devices will assist athletes in tracking fitness data and improving training efficiency. Such incentives promote both motivation and performance improvement.
Tashpulatov also announced a one-year sponsorship contract for one of Botswana’s top three finishing athletes. This agreement is intended to support the athlete’s continued development after the event. It provides financial and structural backing to help maintain competitive progress. Long-term support of this nature is critical in retaining elite talent within the national sports system. It also demonstrates confidence in the future of Botswana athletics.
The sponsorship package extends further into training development, with plans to upgrade sports equipment used by athletes. This includes advanced tools such as VO₂ max training masks, which are used to enhance endurance and performance. These upgrades will be implemented in collaboration with relevant sporting authorities to ensure proper usage and integration. Access to modern training equipment is essential for athletes competing at international levels. It helps bridge the gap between local preparation and global competition standards.
O-Green Manager Dr Abeer Al Kalbani highlighted that the company’s vision goes beyond the World Relays event. She emphasized a long-term strategy focused on reviving school sports across Botswana. According to her, grassroots development plays a vital role in sustaining athletic success. She noted that structured programs in schools can identify and nurture talent from an early age. Collaboration between the private sector and government is seen as key to achieving this goal.
The company also confirmed plans to provide a state-of-the-art gym for Botswana’s athletes. The facility will be developed once government allocates suitable space for the project. Technical specifications will be guided by the Botswana Athletics Association to ensure international training standards are met. This gym is expected to significantly strengthen high-performance preparation in the country. Access to modern training facilities is a major factor in improving competitive results.
Minister of Sports and Arts Mr Jacob Kelebeng welcomed the sponsorship and expressed appreciation on behalf of the Government of Botswana. He described O-Green’s contribution as generous and forward-thinking in relation to the World Athletics Relays Gaborone 2026. He noted that the partnership reflects strong cooperation between the public and private sectors. According to him, the support provided will improve athlete welfare and enhance overall event organisation. He also highlighted the importance of such collaborations in advancing sports development in Botswana.
The O-Green sponsorship package represents more than event support. It introduces a structured investment into athlete development, infrastructure, and grassroots sports growth. By combining immediate event needs with long-term development plans, the initiative strengthens Botswana’s position in international athletics. The focus on sustainability, performance enhancement, and youth development creates a balanced approach to sports advancement. As preparations continue for the World Relays Gaborone 2026, this partnership sets a strong foundation for both success at the event and future sporting growth in the country.
