The Gender Equality & Safe Sport Forum was successfully held at Sibayeni Lodge, bringing together key local and regional stakeholders to advance athlete protection, inclusion and safeguarding within Eswatini’s sporting landscape.
The Eswatini Olympic & Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA) proudly welcomed an influential delegation of guests, including colleagues who visited the previous day for benchmarking, as well as Mrs. Malebo Raditladi-Nkgakile from the AUSC Safe Sport & Safeguarding for All Initiative. Their participation strengthened the depth and quality of the forum’s discussions.
The event was officially opened by EOCGA President, Mr. Adam Mthethwa, who underscored the importance of building safe, inclusive and equitable sporting environments. He emphasized that safeguarding is not only a responsibility, but a commitment to ensuring every athlete is protected and given equal opportunity across all levels of sport.
One of the major highlights of the day was a compelling presentation delivered by Mrs. Dorothy Tlagae-Gaseitsiwe, CEO of the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC). Her session enriched the dialogue on gender equity and safeguarding, while also opening the door to a potential Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between BNOC and EOCGA. This prospective partnership stands to deepen collaboration and enhance operational excellence within both organisations.
The forum drew strong participation from National Federations, who engaged in meaningful conversations on strengthening systems, policies and awareness in safeguarding and gender equality. Delegates explored practical ways to improve reporting mechanisms, enhance education on athlete protection, and ensure safer training and competition environments.
By hosting this forum, the EOCGA demonstrated its ongoing commitment to cultivating a healthier, more equitable sports system for Eswatini. The gathering marked an important step forward in creating sporting spaces that protect, empower and uplift all participants — especially women and young athletes.