Rome wasn’t built in a day – Maxwell

MBABANE – Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Maxwell Jele expressed pride in the Eswatini athletes who participated in the recently ended African Games.

The EOCGA CEO applauded the 13 Eswatini athletes who participated in the 13th edition of the African Games held in Accra, Ghana. The athletes represented the country in five sporting codes: Athletics, swimming, boxing, karate-do, and taekwondo. The team was led by Chef de Mission Zakhele Zulu, assisted by Zama Tsabedze and physiotherapist Nomvula Dlamini. Prior to the event, Jele acknowledged the financial contributions made by government through the Eswatini Sports and Recreation Council, amounting to E1.1 million, and an additional E600 000 provided by the EOCGA.

While Eswatini’s medal aspirations were dashed when national sprinters Bongiwe Mahlalela and Sibusiso ‘Swazi Bolt’ Matsenjwa failed to secure podium finishes in their respective 200m final events, the athletes’ efforts and dedication to representing the country on an international stage were applauded by Jele and the EOCGA.

CONGRATULATIONS

“I extend heartfelt congratulations to all the athletes who represented our nation at the African Games. Their selection alone is an honour, given the stringent criteria they had to meet. We would also like to laud the athletes who advanced through the initial stages of the competition, particularly those in taekwondo and athletics. These athletes displayed determination and performed admirably in their respective disciplines.

Special recognition goes to Bongiwe Mahlalela and Sibusiso Matsenjwa, both of whom reached the finals of the 200m event. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work and dedication to the sport, and we are proud to have them represent Eswatini on the international stage,” he said.

The CEO further mentioned that the athletes’ performance provides reassurance and serves as a source of inspiration to persist in implementing the current strategy. “As a collective, we understand that results do not come overnight. Achieving success requires a long-term commitment and determination from the athletes, as well as the continuous development and support of the necessary structures. We are confident that all athletes representing our nation will return home with pride, knowing they have given their best effort. We encourage them to harness the valuable experience and exposure gained at the African Games to further elevate their performance and that of Eswatini’s athletes in international competitions,” Jele said.

GRATITUDE

He further expressed gratitude towards all parties involved in ensuring the successful participation of Team Eswatini. “As we look ahead to the Paris 2024 Games, we eagerly anticipate the rise of talented athletes with aspirations of making a global impact. We believe there are no limits to what these promising individuals can achieve, and we remain committed to providing the support they need to reach their full potential. With our focus now shifting to Paris 2024, we are confident that several Eswatini athletes will secure their spots,” ‘he added.

He took the opportunity to recognise Matsenjwa, who has competed in his final African Games. “Throughout his career, Matsenjwa has been an exemplary leader among our athletes, inspiring the next generation of Eswatini sportsmen and women. His dedication and exceptional representation of our country on the international stage have left a lasting impact on Eswatini’s athletic legacy,” the CEO said.