Eswatini’s athletes heading to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow have received a warm send-off, with the British High Commission hosting a special celebration in their honour at the High Commissioner’s Residence in Ezulwini on Wednesday.
The event, hosted Colin Wells, British High Commissioner to Eswatini, celebrated the dedication, discipline and excellence of the athletes, coaches and support staff who will represent the Kingdom at one of the world’s most prestigious multi-sport competitions.
Addressing guests, including Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, High Commissioner Wells said the gathering was an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the individuals selected to represent Eswatini on the international stage.
He described the athletes as “celebrants” whose commitment and sporting excellence had earned them the honour of carrying the nation’s flag at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, which begin in Glasgow next week. “Excellence is here tonight,” Wells said, highlighting that Eswatini’s finest athletes, trainers and support personnel would proudly represent the country during the two-week sporting spectacle.
He said the team carried not only personal ambitions but also the hopes and pride of an entire nation as they compete against some of the Commonwealth’s best athletes.
“Eswatini’s best athletes, their trainers and support staff will be beyond proud to represent their country at one of the world’s most prestigious multi-disciplinary tournaments,” he said.
The High Commissioner encouraged the athletes to embrace the experience, compete with pride and enjoy the opportunity to connect with fellow competitors from across the Commonwealth.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will officially open next Thursday, with the opening ceremony expected to be attended by His Majesty King Charles III and Eswatini’s Minister of Sports, Youth and Culture.
A highlight of the ceremony will be the presentation of Commonwealth batons from participating nations and territories. Eswatini’s uniquely designed baton, which was blessed by Prime Minister Russell Dlamini in August 2025, will be among more than 50 batons presented to King Charles III before he officially declares the Games open.
Wells noted that the United Kingdom, and Scotland in particular, looked forward to welcoming Eswatini’s delegation and providing a memorable experience for athletes and officials.“Have fun, enjoy your sporting excellence, soak up the joy of being with others from across our wonderful Commonwealth of Nations and return here to Eswatini as better people and, of course, bedecked with medals,” he said.
The British High Commission team expressed pride in hosting the celebration, wishing the athletes success as they prepare to compete on the global stage. The send-off event underscored the strong relationship between Eswatini and the United Kingdom, while recognising sport as a powerful platform for national pride, youth empowerment and international cooperation.
As the team prepares to depart for Glasgow, the nation’s athletes carry with them the hopes of Eswatini, ready to showcase their talent, determination and the spirit of the Kingdom before a global audience.
