les chefs de mission en réunion à Alger
Summary of the First African School Games Meeting in Algiers
A significant meeting for the inaugural African School Games commenced in Algiers on May 19, gathering representatives from the 54 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) of Africa. Under the patronage of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and organized by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ACNOA) in collaboration with the International School Sport Federation (FISS), this two-day event aims to discuss the strategic importance and expectations of the games, which are set to take place this summer in Algeria.
Objectives and Importance
The meeting serves as a platform to explore the impact the African School Games could have on the development of sports in Africa, particularly in fostering the Olympic values across the continent. Mustapha Berraf, President of ACNOA, highlighted the Algerian government’s commitment to this initiative. He emphasized that the games will contribute significantly to nurturing young athletes as they prepare for upcoming major competitions, including the African Youth Games in 2025 and the Youth Olympics in Dakar in 2026.
Berraf’s speech underscored the meeting’s role in solidifying Africa’s dedication to investing in youth, promoting education through sports, and reinforcing the Olympic principles of respect, excellence, and solidarity. The collaborative efforts during this seminar are designed to ensure effective organization, safety, and quality of the games.
Event Preparations
Several Algerian cities, including Skikda, Annaba, Sétif, and Constantine, are gearing up to host the games, which will feature young competitors aged 14 to 17 from across Africa. The program is set to include 25 diverse disciplines—ranging from athletics and swimming to judo, taekwondo, skateboarding, beach volleyball, basketball 3×3, and football. For team sports, the ACNOA has established a system whereby each of its seven regions can qualify two national teams.
Educational and Cooperative Goals
Beyond the competitive aspect, the African School Games aim to highlight educational and civic values associated with sports. They offer a significant opportunity to discover potential talents on the continent and encourage cooperation among African nations in the sporting sector. This event not only serves as a stage for competition but also as a manifestation of Algeria’s commitment to advancing school sports and its capability to host major international events.
Conclusion
The African School Games represent a landmark initiative with the potential to unify and elevate the sporting spirit across Africa. By fostering young athletes and promoting Olympic values, the games will contribute to a brighter future for sports on the continent. As preparations continue, the emphasis on collaboration, quality, and educational values remains paramount, ensuring that this event will leave a lasting legacy for future athletes in Africa.
