Africa-Press – Eswatini. Eswatini boxing history was made as Mukelo Dlamini from Zebra Force Boxing Club secured a thrilling victory over Havyarimana Abdul of Rwanda in the 57kg category at the IBA Men’s World Boxing Championships in Dubai on December 7, 2025.
Speaking to this publication, Nathi Dlamini, Secretary General of the Eswatini Boxing Association (EBA), expressed pride in the historic achievement. “We are extremely happy as an Association. Mukelo is the first Eswatini boxer to win his opening fight at the Men’s World Boxing Championships. This is a milestone for both him and our country,” he said.
Mukelo’s home-based coach, Maxwell Ngwenya, also expressed immense pride in the young athlete’s performance. “As his coach and his aunt’s son, I am very proud. Mukelo has shown great discipline since he started boxing at the age of 10. This victory is the result of years of dedication and hard work,” Ngwenya said.
The Eswatini Boxing Association delegation, participating in the Championships for the second time since their 2024 debut, comprises six boxers Khaya Shongwe (54kg), Mukelo Dlamini (57kg), Qhawe Gamedze (60kg), Thabiso Dlamini (63.5kg), Khayelihle Mkhabela (67kg), and Sibonelo Ndzimandze (71kg) alongside coaches Douglas Simelane and Muzi Shongwe.
The Championships which began on December 2 and will conclude on December 14, 2025, offer local athletes the chance to gain invaluable international experience.
The EBA delegation is competing with the support of the International Boxing Association (IBA), which sponsored travel and accommodation, aiming to strengthen competitiveness and expose Eswatini boxers to the highest level of the sport.
With this historic first victory, Mukelo Dlamini has put Eswatini firmly on the global boxing map and inspired a new generation of young athletes in the country.
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