By Twink Jones Gadama
The Malawi Olympic Committee (MOC) has identified seven sporting disciplines to focus on for the 2026 Commonwealth Games qualifiers, which are set to begin this year. The Games themselves will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2026.
According to MOC Director General Naomi Chinatu, the targeted sports are judo, boxing, swimming, netball, parasport, weightlifting, and cycling. Chinatu emphasized that qualifying for the Games is a crucial step, as failure to do so would mean Malawi cannot compete.
The MOC has already submitted a budget of K635 million to cater for the qualifiers. Chinatu expressed confidence that national sports associations have already started preparing for the qualifiers, as this falls under their responsibility.
Malawi has a rich history of participating in the Commonwealth Games, having made its debut in 1970 in Edinburgh, Scotland. The country has competed in every Games since then, winning medals in sports like boxing.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow promise to be an exciting event, with the city having previously hosted the Games in 2014. The Games will feature a 10-sport program concentrated across four venues within an eight-mile corridor of the city.
George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as Chief Executive of Glasgow City Council.
As Malawi gears up for the qualifiers, the MOC’s focus on these seven sporting disciplines is a strategic move to ensure the country’s athletes are well-prepared for the competition.
With the qualifiers just around the corner, Malawian sports fans will be eagerly watching to see which athletes will make the cut for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
