The government has challenged Team Tanzania athletes to compete with determination, uphold discipline and return home with medals as they prepare to represent the country at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland.
The call was made by National Sports Council (NSC) Executive Secretary Neema Msitha during the official flag presentation ceremony for the Tanzanian contingent ahead of the Games, scheduled for July 23 to August 2, 2026.
Msitha said the athletes would be carrying the hopes of more than 60 million Tanzanians and urged them to appreciate the significance of the responsibility entrusted to them by delivering strong performances while maintaining exemplary conduct throughout the competition.
"Receiving the national flag is an honour, but how you carry and represent it is even more important. We expect you to compete with commitment, make the country proud and return home with medals that will inspire all Tanzanians," she said.
She noted that Tanzania ended a medal drought of more than a decade by winning three medals at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, adding that the country now expects an even stronger performance.
Msitha also called on the athletes to uphold discipline, integrity and the values that define Tanzania, while thanking sports associations, federations, coaches and parents for their role in identifying and nurturing sporting talent.
Head of Delegation Henry Tandau said the team was well prepared despite Tanzania competing in only four disciplines following changes to the Games programme.
He said the country will be represented in athletics, judo, swimming and boxing, with the delegation targeting at least six medals double the three won at the previous edition.
Tandau also revealed that Tanzania will make history by fielding a female boxer at the Commonwealth Games for the first time, describing the achievement as a milestone in the country's efforts to promote women's participation in international sport.
Team captain Collin Saliboko expressed confidence in the squad's readiness, thanking the government, coaches, sports leaders and parents for their unwavering support during preparations.
"We have trained hard and are ready for the challenge ahead. We assure Tanzanians that we will fight for every opportunity to bring home medals and make the nation proud," Saliboko said.
