Botswana Unveils Special 50 Pula Note Honouring Letsile Tebogo

Botswana has taken a bold step to celebrate both its financial and sporting milestones. On 12 September 2025, the Bank of Botswana unveiled a redesigned 50 Pula banknote as part of its Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years since the institution’s founding.

The new note features the portrait of Olympic champion Letsile Tebogo, widely regarded as one of the fastest rising stars in athletics, alongside the Botswana men’s 4x400m relay team. By doing so, the Bank not only commemorates its own history but also highlights the nation’s pride in its sporting heroes.

Speaking at the launch, President Duma Boko noted that the commemorative banknote is more than just currency. It is a symbol of national achievement, unity, and progress — a lasting tribute to Tebogo’s significance on the world stage and the legacy of Botswana’s athletic excellence.

Importantly, this special edition 50 Pula will circulate alongside existing banknotes, ensuring that citizens can see and hold a piece of history in their hands. The decision reinforces the role of money not only as a financial tool but also as a medium to preserve and celebrate Botswana’s identity.

This recognition of Tebogo marks a powerful moment where sport, culture, and national pride intersect — a reminder that the achievements of young Africans deserve to be etched into history, both on the track and in the fabric of everyday life.

What do you think — should more African nations follow Botswana’s lead by featuring contemporary icons on their currency? Read more here: https://www.ceek.com/learn/