News

The University of Botswana (UB) Boxing Club, in collaboration with the Botswana Boxing Association (BBA), successfully hosted the 2024 National Boxing Championship semi-finals and finals at the UB Indoor Sports Centre from 7th to 8th December 2024.

UB Boxing Club’s Cedric Baroma delivered an outstanding performance, winning two prestigious awards. The fourth-year Bachelor of Nursing student claimed victory in the Bantamweight category, earning a gold medal and the title of 2024 Bantamweight National Champion. Baroma triumphed over Katlo Kgowe of Prisons Boxing Club in the finals, securing a hard-fought 3-2 win. The bout was also voted the "Best Bout" in the male category.

Adding to his accolades, Baroma was named the tournament’s Best Male Boxer. His journey to the championship included a 3-2 semi-final victory against Maxwell Sechi of Police Boxing Club and an impressive 5-0 quarterfinal win over Ogone Koodirile of Francistown Boxing Club.

Overall, UB Boxing Club achieved an impressive second-place finish, amassing three (3) gold medals, one (1) silver and one (1) bronze. Despite earning the highest cumulative score of 20 points, the club ranked second due to the medal system used in the 2024 Championship which featured competition from 11 clubs.

The other gold medals were secured by 2019 Africa Champion and 2020 Olympian Rajab Mohammed in the 51kg category following an abandonment (ADB) by his opponent in the third round and by rising star Karabo Motshwarakgole in the 63.5kg category. Motshwarakgole defeated veteran boxer, Treasure Moremi, with a commanding 4-1 victory.

Kaone Gaobotlhoko won a silver medal in the 57kg category, narrowly losing 5-0 to Mmoloki Sekwaipe of Eastern Military Garrison. Meanwhile, Keaoleboga Mokokwe, the only female competitor in the UB Boxing Club, earned a bronze medal after a determined effort against Jennifer Sechi of Police Boxing Club.

The UB Boxing Club Technical Team, administrators and Department of Culture, Sports and Recreation expressed immense pride in the achievements of their youthful and predominantly freshman team. The Department, as the custodian of UB sports, plays a crucial role in supporting the ambitions of both the club and its individual athletes. Through its guidance, Mmadikolo continues to make a significant impact on Botswana’s boxing scene and other sporting disciplines.

The club recognizes the exceptional contributions of its technical team led by Head Coach, Lechedzani “Master” Luza, of Master Fitness Centre along with coaches Joshua Kgamone, Nthaba Wangu Nlanda, Oteng Oteng, Monthusi Moitoi, Mooketsi Lekgetho and Samodimo Rabatho. The dedication and volunteerism of the technical team and administrators remain pivotal to the club’s success.

UB Boxing Club also appreciates the continued support of its strategic partner, Tsholofelo Boxing Club, led by France Mabiletsa.

The club extends heartfelt gratitude to its sponsors: SmithShine (Pty) Ltd for providing event refreshments through Nutro Charge Energy Shake, Mmoloki Medical Laboratories as the club’s pathology sponsor, and Master Fitness Centre as the club’s technical sponsor. The partnerships and contributions have been instrumental in the club’s success and growth.