EZULWINI – The Prime Minister (PM), Russell Mmiso Dlamini, has urged Team Eswatini delegation to pursue excellence during the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
The Commonwealth Games begin next Thursday, July 23, by an opening ceremony, with boxing and swimming events commencing the following day.
The PM, represented by his Deputy, Thulisile Dladla, conveyed the message to the 10 athletes and seven officials who will be competing in judo, athletics, swimming and boxing. The farewell event was held at the Royal Villas Hotel, Ezulwini this evening, Thursday, July 16, and was organised by the British High Commission in Eswatini.
“Never feel inferior. Rather, pursue excellence in every event while embracing the opportunity to learn from the world’s finest competitors,” Dladla said.
She reminded the athletes that success is not measured by medals alone, but also by the commitment demonstrated, the character shown and the inspiration provided to young athletes who look to them as role models.
“Your journey has the power to ignite dreams and encourage the next generation to believe that they, too, can represent Eswatini on the world stage,” the DPM added.
Meanwhile, the British High Commissioner, Collins Wells, joked that he had hoped to deliver his speech while celebrating a 7-0 victory for England against Argentina in the FIFA World Cup last night, but unfortunately, they were knocked out.
“Enjoy your experience, soak up the joy of being with others from across the wonderful Commonwealth of Nations, and return to Eswatini as better people and, of course, bedecked with medals,” Wells told team Eswatini.
On another note, the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA) President, Adam ‘Bomber’ Mthethwa, was delighted by the kind gesture toward the team and thanked the government and other stakeholders for the support provided. Mthethwa expressed his belief that the team will travel safely and make the nation proud.
The team will depart in staggered stages, beginning on Sunday with the Chef de Mission, Zakhele Dlamini. Dlamini will be followed by the swimming and boxing teams on Monday, with the remainder of the delegation following thereafter to ensure they arrive three days before their respective competitions begin.
Furthermore, the entire Team Eswatini is set for a pre-departure camp at the Simunye Country Club, running from tomorrow until Sunday.
