Botswana: Ministry of Youth, Gender, Sport and Culture (MYSC) launched the Play Sober,Win Strong Campaign in Tsolamosese. The initiative was conceived in partnership with Botswana National Sports Council (BNSC) and Alcohol levvy under Ministry of Health.
The campaign aimed at informing the people that alcohol and drug use is incompatible with sports performance and participation. The Ministry has been working hard to encourage sportspersons to abstain from indulging in these practices.
Minister Tumiso Rakgare spoke in detail regarding the campaign, recalling that “Play Sober,Win Strong” is more than just a slogan. He said it is a call to action to every athlete, coach, supporter and Batswana at large.
“The campaign is about empowering our athletes and Batswana to perform to their highest level.” Further He urged them to make conscious choice of avoiding alcohol and other harmful substance.
“By embracing a sober lifestyle our athletes and Batswana can maintain great physical and mental sharpness.” The Minister said it is essential for peak performances in their workplaces and other persuits.”
He further highlighted that the World Health Organization (WHO) have registered high rates and deaths that had to do with substance abuse. The Botswana National Alcohol Policy as of 2018 registered 48.1% of secondary students using alcohol and 16.7% use of drugs.
Hence this is to say there should be responsible intake of alcohol or just avoiding alcohol and drugs intake all at once.
The Play Sober, Win Strong Campaign will feature educational programmes, workshops and mentorship initiatives. This activities will be lead by both past and current athletes, namely the likes of Amantle Montsho, Onkabetse Nkobolo, Lee Eppie, Leungo Scotch, Oratile Nowe and others.
In coclusion to the event, Tumiso Rakgare gave gratitude to Debswana Company for having sponsored the athletes. They supported the athletes in 2021 with 9 million pula funds in preparation for the 2024 Olympics held in Paris.
The team that will be representing Botswana comprises of 12 runners and 2 swimmers.
BNSC Chairperson Mr Marumo Morule emphasized the importance of safe driving to protect lives, especially those of athletes and creative talents. He stressed the need to avoid anything that could compromise performance and hinder their ability to continue excelling.
As sports are being introduced back to school, BNSC gifted the Nkoyaphiri and Lesirane Primary schools and Mmakadile football team sports equipment such as netballs, basketballs , volleyballs whistles, cones ,etc