BY THEMBA ZWANE
EZULWINI– Government has challenged Team Eswatini to compete with confidence and never feel inferior as they prepare to represent the Kingdom at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini during a farewell reception for Team Eswatini at Royal Villas on Thursday evening, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla urged the athletes to pursue excellence and fly the national flag high on the international stage.
“Never ever feel inferior. Rather pursue excellence in every event whilst embracing the opportunity to learn from the world’s finest competitors,” the Prime Minister said in remarks delivered by the Deputy Prime Minister.
The farewell reception brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, sports administrators, sponsors, coaches and athletes ahead of Team Eswatini’s departure for Scotland.
The Prime Minister congratulated the athletes, coaches and officials on earning selection to the national team, describing their inclusion as a reward for years of discipline, sacrifice and perseverance.
“Your selection is not by chance; it is the result of discipline, commitment, perseverance and sacrifice,” he said, noting that behind every athlete was a story of hard work, determination and support from families and coaches.
He reminded the team that the Commonwealth Games were more than a sporting competition, but a celebration of excellence, diversity and unity among nations. He said the event offered Eswatini an opportunity to showcase not only sporting talent but also the resilience and character of its people.
The athletes were further reminded that they would serve as ambassadors of the Kingdom throughout the Games.
“Wherever you compete, you will be ambassadors of the Kingdom of Eswatini. You will carry our flag, our values and the hopes of a proud nation,” he said.
The Prime Minister called on the athletes to conduct themselves with humility, integrity and respect while maintaining the highest standards of discipline both on and off the field of play.
Government, he said, remained committed to investing in sport as a key pillar of national development, recognising its role in empowering young people, promoting healthy lifestyles, creating employment opportunities and fostering national pride.
He pledged continued collaboration with the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA), the Eswatini Sports and Recreation Council (ESRC), national sports federations and other stakeholders to strengthen athlete development pathways and create more opportunities for international success.
While medals remained an important target, the Prime Minister stressed that success should also be measured by the character, commitment and inspiration athletes provide to future generations.
“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,” he said.
The Prime Minister also called on emaSwati to unite behind the national team during the Games, saying every achievement and personal best should be celebrated as a source of national pride.
He further thanked EOCGA, sports federations, coaches, sponsors, development partners and families for their contribution to the athletes’ journey.
As Team Eswatini prepares to leave for Glasgow, Government expressed confidence that the delegation would represent the Kingdom with distinction, dignity and honour.
“Go to Glasgow with confidence, compete with courage, and return home knowing that the Kingdom of Eswatini is proud of each one of you,” the Prime Minister said.
#Glasgow #PM #EswatiniTeam #Sports #Commonwealth #Government
