People in Botswana reacted angrily on social media after the government asked citizens to donate money to reward the country’s all-time gold medal-winning Olympic team.
The government said in a statement on Monday that the fund would be a way for citizens to honor athletes by “contributing rewards to our champions.”
Letsile Tebogo brought glory to Botswana and its first gold medal when he became the first African athlete to win the men’s 200m at the Olympics.
But the government’s demand for donations has put a stop to celebrations by some, who question why their tax dollars aren’t being used to reward Olympians.
“We have paid our taxes to our champions [sic] Money in government wallets,” one Facebook user fumed.
The government in Botswana did not respond to the BBC’s request for comment and it is unclear whether they also contributed to the prize money.
One user said: “I would love to donate to support this boy’s historic achievement but unfortunately I am currently an unemployed electrical engineering graduate with a bachelor’s degree.”
Another suggested the cabinet lead by example and donate 25% of their salaries.
Other countries in Africa often reward Olympic gold medal or African Cup of Nations winners with houses or lump sum cash.
Botswana has one of the highest per capita income levels in Africa, but also one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the world Afrobarometer.
Although Botswana is one of the world’s largest diamond producers, the southern African country has recently experienced a decline in diamond revenues, forcing the government to cut spending, according to Bloomberg.
While some oppose the fund, there are also those who support Olympic bonuses.
One person passionately suggested opening up the fund so that anyone on the continent could send money.
“Open to all Africans, I want to contribute from Kenya,” said one supporter.
Tebego set an African record in the 200m with a time of 19.46 seconds and won the silver medal in the men’s 4x400m relay with his teammates.
Tens of thousands of people gathered at the National Stadium in the capital, Gaborone, to welcome the Olympic team home on Tuesday, after President Mokwezi Masisi announced a half-day holiday.
