Botswana's social media has been ablaze with anger after the government requested citizens to contribute money to reward the nation's historic Olympic gold medalists.

In a statement on Monday, the government suggested that the public could honor the athletes by "contributing rewards to our champions."

Letsile Tebogo made history as the first African athlete to win the men's 200m at the Olympics, securing Botswana's first-ever gold medal.

However, the government's call for donations has dampened the celebrations for some, who are questioning why their tax money isn't being used to reward the Olympians.

"We are already paying tax, give our champions [sic] money from the government purse," raged one user on Facebook.

The Botswana government did not respond to the BBC's request for comment and it is unclear if they are also contributing to the reward pot.

"I would love to donate in support of the boy’s historic achievement, but unfortunately, I’m currently an unemployed electrical engineering graduate with a bachelor’s degree," one user said.

One individual proposed that the cabinet should set an example by donating 25% of their salaries.

In Africa, it is common for Olympic gold medalists or Africa Cup of Nations winners to be rewarded with houses or large cash prizes by their governments.

Although Botswana boasts one of the highest per capita incomes on the continent, it also suffers from one of the world's highest youth unemployment rates, according to Afrobarometer.

Despite being a major diamond producer, Botswana has recently faced a downturn in diamond revenues, leading to government budget cuts, as reported by Bloomberg.

While many have criticized the fundraising effort, some have expressed support for the idea, with one person eagerly suggesting that the fund be open to contributions from anyone across the continent.

"Open it to all Africans, I want to contribute from Kenya," said one voice of support.

Tebogo set a new African record with a time of 19.46 seconds in the 200m and also secured a silver medal in the men's 4x400m relay with his teammates.

On Tuesday, the National Stadium in Gaborone, the capital, was filled with tens of thousands of people who came to celebrate the Olympic team’s return after President Mokgweetsi Masisi declared a half-day holiday.