For Royal Mabika, the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow offered far more than a ringside view of international sport. As an official at the Games, he experienced the energy, friendship and sense of togetherness that make the Commonwealth sporting movement so special.
From the excitement inside the venues to the sight of athletes proudly representing their nations, Glasgow provided Mabika with memories that will stay with him long after the Games.

Among those memorable moments was also a personal thought — how wonderful it would be to see Zimbabwe sharing in that experience once again.
Reflecting on his time in Glasgow, Mabika described the Commonwealth Games as an inspiring gathering of nations united through sport.

“Attending the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow was more than just witnessing world-class sport—it was an experience that reminded me of the power of unity, friendship, and shared history.”

His role as an official gave him an opportunity to experience the Games from within, surrounded by athletes, officials and sporting professionals from across the Commonwealth.
It was an environment where national pride and international friendship existed side by side. Athletes celebrated one another’s achievements, officials worked together and fans filled venues with excitement.

For Mabika, those moments highlighted the extraordinary ability of sport to bring people together.

“As I watched athletes proudly carry their national flags into packed arenas, I could not help but feel a deep sense of longing. I wished Zimbabwe was still part of this remarkable family.”

His reflections come from a place of affection for Zimbabwe and a belief in the country’s sporting potential.

Zimbabwe has a proud history of producing athletes who have competed successfully on the international stage, inspiring young people and carrying the country’s name across the world.
For Mabika, seeing the world’s sporting community gathered in Glasgow reminded him of the possibilities that can emerge when young athletes are given opportunities to compete, grow and represent their nations.

“Our country has produced exceptional sporting talent over the years. We have champions who have inspired generations and shown the world that Zimbabwe can compete with the very best.”

Beyond the competition itself, Mabika was struck by the wider atmosphere surrounding the Games. Glasgow became a meeting point for different cultures, personalities and sporting traditions, demonstrating how major international events can create lasting connections.

For him, that sense of community is at the heart of the Commonwealth Games.
He also reflected on what it would mean for Zimbabwean athletes and supporters to experience those moments again — from walking into a packed arena wearing the national colours to hearing the country’s anthem and sharing unforgettable memories with teammates.

“I imagined how inspiring it would have been to see our flag flying alongside those of other Commonwealth nations, our anthem playing in the arenas, and our athletes creating memories that would last a lifetime.” Yet Mabika’s message is ultimately one of optimism.

Rather than dwelling on the past, his experience in Glasgow has strengthened his hope for the future and for greater opportunities for Zimbabwe’s sporting community.

“My hope is not rooted in nostalgia alone. It is a hope for the future—a future in which Zimbabwe reconnects with the international sporting community and gives its athletes every possible platform to excel.”

His time in Glasgow also allowed him to appreciate the broader impact of international sport. The Games showcased not only athletic excellence, but also the host city’s culture, hospitality and ability to bring people from different backgrounds together.

Mabika believes Zimbabwe has its own unique story to share from its sporting talent and rich cultural heritage to the warmth of its people.
At the centre of his reflection is a simple belief: sport has the power to inspire, connect and create dreams.

“The Commonwealth Games are not merely another competition; they are a symbol of belonging, cooperation, and shared aspirations.”

As Mabika looks back on his experience officiating at the Glasgow Games, the memories are filled with pride in being part of such a prestigious sporting occasion, pride in witnessing athletes achieve their dreams and pride in the Zimbabwean sporting talent he knows can make its mark on the world.
His greatest hope is that future generations of Zimbabwean athletes will have the opportunity to experience that same feeling of representing their country on the Commonwealth stage.

“I hope that one day, Zimbabwe will once again take its rightful place among the nations of the Commonwealth Games, allowing future generations to dream, compete, and proudly represent the country they love.”

As he carries those memories home, he continues to look towards a future where Zimbabwean athletes can once again take their place among the world’s sporting community.

“Until that day comes, I will continue to believe in the power of sport to unite us and in Zimbabwe’s potential to once again stand proudly on the Commonwealth stage.”