Kusigani Mbambo: “We are advocating for gender equity and demonstrating our commitment to a Botswana where opportunities are equal”
GAZETTE REPORTER
At a celebratory event hosted by Women and Sports Botswana (WASBO) recently, Okavango Diamond Company (ODC) reaffirmed its commitment to the transformative power of sports, especially for women.
ODC’s corporate counsel and company secretary, Kusigani Mbambo, emphasised that the company sees sports as a vital force in shaping discipline, courage and confidence -values that extend far beyond the playing field.
Speaking at the event, which was organised to honour women athletes and officials who represented Botswana at the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Mbambo underscored the importance of supporting female athletes, noting the unique challenges they often face.
Unique challenges and barriers
“Simply put, we see it as an investment in our future,” he said. “Females often face unique challenges and barriers, yet they persist, inspiring countless young girls to dream big and aim high.
“By celebrating today, we are advocating for gender equity and demonstrating our commitment to a Botswana where opportunities are equal and where talent and hard work are the measures of success.”
The celebration recognised three athletes. Maxine Egner, a swimmer; Oratile Nowe, a track and field star; and Gloria Majaga, a Paralympic athlete.
Each was awarded P7,500 by ODC for their performance at the Games.
Officials too
Two officials, Gaone Poane and Dorothy Okatch, were recognised for their contributions to Botswana’s participation and received P10,000 each.
Both the Olympic and Paralympic chefs de mission were rewarded with P7,000 each while each of the four-member medical team was rewarded with P5,000.
For ODC, this investment in women athletes is more than just a financial gesture. It aligns with the company’s core values of excellence, responsibility, and community.
Formed under pressure
Mbambo drew a parallel between the pressures under which diamonds form and the pressures faced by the female athletes they were celebrating.
“Diamonds, like the representatives we are celebrating today, are formed under immense pressure, becoming stronger and more brilliant through adversity,” she said.
“We see the same brilliance and resilience in our females, and we are committed to supporting their journey.”
The event also served as a platform for female athletes to express their gratitude for the recognition.
Hard work
Paralympian Majaga, one of Botswana’s few representatives at the 2024 Paralympic Games, expressed her thanks to WASBO for its inclusivity.
“I want to thank WASBO for being inclusive by also recognising people with disabilities,” she said, highlighting the importance of ensuring that all athletes, regardless of their abilities, are honoured for their hard work and achievements.