In an achievement that signals Botswana’s growing influence in regional and global table tennis, BTTA president Kudzanani Motswagole and umpire Ritah Nthaga have earned certifications as Regional Competition Managers in Progress
GAZETTE REPORTER
The Botswana Table Tennis Association (BTTA) has achieved another milestone in its drive for excellence, with president Kudzanani Motswagole and umpire Ritah Nthaga earning certifications as Regional Competition Managers in Progress.
This achievement follows their successful completion of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Competition Management Africa Workshop online exam on 21 December 2024.
The certification represents a critical step in advancing the sport in Botswana and the Southern African region, solidifying the roles of the two as influential figures in table tennis development.
Botswana’s growing influence
“This milestone underscores Botswana’s growing influence in the regional and global table tennis community,” said BTTA in a statement released recently.
A key figure in local table tennis, Motswagole has been instrumental in efforts to elevate the sport. He is focused on preparing athletes for major international competitions, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
“We are committed to raising the standards of competition management and fostering an environment that produces world-class athletes,”he said. “This certification is a step forward in achieving that vision.”
ITTF Blue Badge
Ritah Nthaga, who is a rising star in the global umpiring community, has added to her list of accolades with this new certification. Currently officiating in Austria and on track to earn the prestigious ITTF Blue Badge status, Nthaga remains a trailblazer for Botswana’s table tennis community.
The certification qualifies Motswagole and Nthaga to oversee and enhance the organisation of tournaments, ensuring that they meet international standards. Their expertise is expected to elevate the quality of competitions hosted in Botswana and to foster regional collaboration.
“This accomplishment places Botswana among a distinguished group of Southern African nations leading the development of table tennis,” BTTA emphasised. “It reflects the dedication and potential of our administrators and officials to position Botswana as a key player on the global stage.”
With this achievement, BTTA continues to solidify its reputation as a progressive force in table tennis, celebrating a victory that resonates beyond national borders. The association and the broader table tennis community eagerly anticipate the contributions of the two to the sport’s advancement in the region.