Botswana: Gaborone City hosted the officials opening ceremony of the International Table Tennis Federation AFRICA YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP. The youth table tennis event is held at Botho University on Thursday with several table tennis fans and enthusiasts in attendance.
The event is being hosted under the theme ‘’Empowering tomorrow’s leaders: uniting and providing opportunities to African Youth through Table Tennis’’.
The Gaborone City Mayor Austin Abraham was present at the opening of the event. During the launch, he expressed gratitude to the ITTF and the ITTF-Africa for trusting Gaborone.
By hosting the event, with the responsibility of hosting the event and putting the City on the map. He stated that the city has a rich history of hosting major sporting events therefore it gives more pleasure to be adding ITTF Youth Championship to the list.
The Mayor of Gaborone assured all participating countries that there are excellent facilities and great atmosphere which will enable them to showcase their talents and create unforgettable experiences.
The Mayor also encouraged the athletes to compete with integrity and most importantly enjoy every moment to shine and inspire the next generation of Table Tennis as well as making long lasting friendships and connection with their peers.
Furthermore ITTF Chairman Wahid Enitan Oshodi said the day symbolises a remarkable potential of young people and the unity this event fosters across the continent. Furthermore Oshodi stated that hosting ITTF Africa youth championships for the first time in Botswana is a significant milestone for the nation and a statement to position herself as a hub for international events.
He stressed that sports is a universal language that transcends boarders, cultures and languages as it teaches everyone life skills, team work resilience and respect that go beyond the playing field.
Oshodi urged young athletes to be more courageous and know that Table Tennis is not just a game but a pathway to personal growth, leadership and a brighter future.