An extraordinary session of the ANOCA Executive Committee held on the sidelines of the African School Games unanimously decided to award the organisation of the 2027 African School Games to Nigeria and 2029 to Kenya.
Strategic decision for the future of African sport
This decision marks a major turning point in the development strategy of continental school sport. ANOCA President, Mustapha Berraf underscored the importance of these games as “a springboard for talent identification in the future.’’
Abuja 2027: A choice based on commitment and expertise
Scheduled to host the Senior African Games in April 2027, Nigeria already has all the necessary infrastructure in place. This dual award will optimise investment and enhance expertise. In Algeria, the representative of the Nigerian government confirmed the country’s commitment, guaranteeing free accommodation and catering for all participating athletes.
“We approached Nigeria several months ago, and their steadfast commitment deserves to be recognized,” said President Berraf, recalling the importance of honouring commitments in inter-African relations.
Kenya 2029: gateway to East Africa
The award of the 2029 Games to Kenya, driven by the vision of the President of the Republic of Kenya, demonstrates ANOCA’s determination to promote equitable geographical rotation across the continent. This decision endorses the African School Games as a biennial event, a complete break with the quadrennial cycle.
Streamlining sports governance
This session also afforded EXCO members the opportunity to adopt important modernising measures:
- Drafting the games manual with standardised terms and conditions;
- Establishing a rigorous bidding process for future editions;
- Systematic evaluation of bids by a specialised coordination committee.
“We don’t want to re-live the unpleasant experiences of the past, like the last-minute withdrawal of certain countries,” EXCO members unanimously asserted.
Institutional recognition
The EXCO also approved the award of the African Order of Merit to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in recognition of his constant support to ANOCA, particularly by hosting the continental headquarters in Abuja. This distinction will be awarded by an ANOCA delegation during an official ceremony.
Major economic opportunities
With a population of over 150 million, Nigeria presents a lucrative opportunity for sponsors and commercial partners. This economic potential, which was highlighted during the deliberations, will give these continental competitions greater exposure with substantial funding.
Schedule and coordination
According to the EXCO members, the 2027 African School Games will be held in coordination with the African Beach Games that same year, since both events target different spectators, with no risk of clashes. This optimised planning testifies to the growing organisational maturity of the African Olympic Movement.
Next stages
Algeria officially passed on the flame to Nigeria during the closing ceremony of African School Games in Algiers. Meanwhile, ANOCA will pursue its institutional missions with the imminent commissioning the new NOC headquarters in Gabon.
