Botswana: Debswana Diamond Company has extended their support to the Paralympic Association of Botswana (PASSOBO). They have issued an investment value of more than P1.2 million to the support of the organization.
The organization made this contribution in line with Debswana’s 55th anniversary theme of ‘More Than Diamond Mining.’ The organization has continued to remain a major support to the sports and athletics sector of the nation.
This year, the Debswana Diamond Company’s support spanned across several international events including
The Paris 2023 World Championships
South African Sport Association for Physical Disabled (SASAPD) Bloemfontein Championship
Kobe 2024 World Para Championships
The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.
Edwin Masuge and Gloria Majaga, aged 24 and 23 respectively, represented Botswana at the recently concluded Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. A Debswana representative accompanied the athletes and the team officials to the Paralympic Games.
This was part of the continued partnership and collaboration that exists between the company and external stakeholders. The fact that a representative was accompanying the team was a proof of the company’s value of ‘Show You Care’.
The para athletic duo performed well and broke their standing records and achieved personal bests at the event. Masuge clocked 49.38 seconds on the 400m T13 final compared to 50.54 seconds at the Tokyo Paralympics.
On the other hand, Majaga achieved 59.72 seconds as compared to 1:04:18 seconds on the 400m T13 heats. The athletes were recognized at the 2022 Botswana National Sport Commission awards as Best Male Athlete with a Disability and Outstanding Female Athlete with a Disability.
These achievements were proof of the athletes dedicated coaching and meticulous planning. The athletes, according to Debswana put their best foot forward at the international event. They showed great courage, zeal, determination and gusto to realise their achievements.
Debswana has confirmed that they are committed to supporting the Paralympics team beyond 2024. They will assist the athletes of Botswana in preparing for the Los Angeles 2028. We look forward to a strengthened partnership towards greater sport development.