Kids run towards Independence in style
BW KIDS’ INDEPENDENCE RUN: A nation’s heartbeat, reimagined
For far too long, the smallest ones have been left in the lurch during Botswana’s grandest celebrations. Independence Day, a time when the nation’s heart beats as one, often feels like a party where the children are simply spectators, not participants.
They deserve to be part of the tapestry of national pride, to feel the joy and history in their own way. A healthy childhood is not just about physical growth; it’s about a sense of belonging, the thrill of competition, and the simple pleasure of being with their friends. It’s time to turn over a new leaf.
This September, the winds of change are blowing a fresh breeze across the country. Martin Fani and Moagi Madisa, the two musketeers behind Fan’Mo Sports Agency, have decided to take the bull by the horns.
Building on the runaway success of their Absa Summer Kids Marathon, they are now pulling out all the stops to give children a chance to be at the very center of the 59th Independence Day festivities. This year, the celebrations won’t just be for the grown-ups; they will be a gift to the children, a chance for them to run, laugh, and celebrate their heritage with gusto.
The tour kicks off on September 6, 2025, in Francistown, setting the stage for a month of fun and fitness. The momentum will build as the run moves to Palapye on September 13, Jwaneng on September 20, and culminates in a grand finale in Gaborone on September 27.
When asked about their preparations, the co-directors are all smiles, confident that this new era of independence celebrations will hit the ground running. Their vision is a powerful one: they want to see the national flag come to life, not on a pole, but in the colorful procession of children, all dressed in the national colors. It’s a powerful way to teach history and patriotism in a way that truly connects with them.
“We started our preparations a couple of months ago,” Madisa shared, his passion shining through. “Our dream is to create a living, breathing national flag with our participants. It’s absolutely crucial that we remind our kids where we come from as a country, and what better way to do that than through the universal language of sport? Every single sporting code starts with a warm up, and running is the very foundation.” It’s a message that strikes a deep chord, blending physical activity with national identity.
For his part, Fani is not just shooting for the moon; he’s convinced they’ll get there. “We are targeting 500 kids for each location, and we have a strong feeling we will exceed that. There’s something truly beautiful about seeing everyone turn up in the national colors. The timing is perfect, with school sports coming back. The kids are just chomping at the bit to get involved in sporting events. We’re urging parents to get their children registered and be a part of this.”
Fan’Mo Sports Agency believes in more than just a race; they are about igniting a passion. “We’re about fitness and fun for our kids at the same time. We want to show them that sports can be more than just a hobby, it can be a lucrative career. That’s why participation is key.”
As the clock ticks down, the excitement is palpable. The registration is now open for a fee of P100, which includes a medal, hydration, and snacks. Additional merchandise like t-shirts and socks are also available to complete the look. It’s time to give the children a day in the sun, a moment to shine, and a chance to truly celebrate their nation. This event is not just a run; it’s a testament to the idea that a nation’s strength lies in the happiness and health of its youngest citizens. After all, when it comes to the future, it’s all hands on deck.
