IN 30 DAYS, LET’S STAND UNITED AROUND THE VALUES OF SPORT IN ANGOLA
Dear athletes,
African sports Families,
Friends of Africa,
In exactly thirty days, the sun will rise over the beautiful city of Luanda to illuminate a historic moment – the kick-off to the fourth African Youth Games, thirty days to an event that transcends the sports calendar to embody the very essence of our continental vision: making African youths the architects of their own destiny.
Under the most distinguished patronage of His Excellency João Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola, and under the aegis of ANOCA, these Games mark a significant milestone in sports development in Africa.
ANGOLA, LAND OF HOSPITALITY AND RENAISSANCE
Angola opens its doors to us with a generosity that embodies Africa’s legendary hospitality. This is a country that has transformed its challenges into opportunities and, relying on its resilience, built an aspiring nation that offers our young people the most beautiful settings to blossom. The state-of-the-art facilities that will host our competitions do not just represent infrastructure – they are a living symbol of what Africa can achieve when it believes in its young people.
These Games are more than just a competition: they are a school of life, blending cultures, showcasing talent, creativity and the courage of our youths. They portray a united, forward-looking and inspiring Africa that expresses itself through sport.
Based on the theme “Building the Africa of tomorrow today,” ANOCA and the entire African Olympic Movement reaffirm their commitment to providing our young people with a platform for learning, fraternity and excellence.
I would like to pay tribute to the people and government of Angola for their determination and hospitality, and to all those who are working to make these Games a memorable success.
HISTORY-MAKING GENERATION
To all the young athletes who, at this very moment, are honing their skills, fine-tuning their techniques and visualising their performances: you are not simply preparing for competitions – you are penning a new chapter in African sports history. Each of your training sessions is a declaration of ambition. Every drop of your sweat is an investment in the future of our continent.
In thirty days, you will not only be defending the colours of your nations. You will embody the dreams of millions of young Africans who see you as role models, pioneers, living proof that African excellence is boundless.
INNOVATION AT THE HEART OF OUR EVENT
These Games will be different. For the first time in the history of African Youth Games, we are incorporating a revolutionary digital component. A digital platform will connect all spectators across the continent, enabling every African, from Cape to Cairo, Dakar to Dar es Salaam, to live these magical moments in real time. Africa will no longer be a spectator at its own event – it will be the main actor, connected, engaged and vibrant.
We are also launching the “Champions of Tomorrow” programme, an initiative that will identify and support budding talents far beyond the closing ceremony. Because our responsibility does not end with the final whistle – it truly begins there.
UNITY IN DIVERSITY
These Games will bring together over 3,000 young athletes representing the wonderful diversity of our continent. Fifty-four flags will fly side by side, fifty-four anthems will resonate in the stadiums, but only one voice will rise: that of an Africa united by the values of sport, respect, and excellence.
In a world often prone to division, sport remains the universal language that breaks barriers, transcends differences, and celebrates our common humanity. These Games will be the most beautiful illustration.
CALL FOR MOBILISATION
Today, I call on all NOCs to intensify their final preparations. I invite African governments to support their delegations with pride. I urge the media to tell these extraordinary stories of determination and stretching limits. I encourage every African to mobilise, follow, support and celebrate.
To the sponsors and partners who have believed in this vision, your commitment goes beyond financial support. You are investing in Africa’s most precious human capital – its youth.
FINAL COUNTDOWN
In exactly thirty days, seven hundred and twenty hours, forty-three thousand two hundred minutes, the African Olympic flame will ignite in Luanda. Every second that passes brings us closer to a moment that will remain etched in our collective memories. Africa is bracing for the event, Angola is ready, our athletes are determined. The world is watching!
From 10 to 20 December 2025, let’s make these African Youth Games not just a sports event, but a continental movement that will prove to the entire world that when Africa invests in its youths, it invests in a future where everything becomes possible.
Together, let’s make history. Together, let’s celebrate excellence. Together, let’s build the Africa of tomorrow.
Honourable Mustapha BERRAF
ANOCA President
IOC Member
ANOC Vice President
President of the Olympafrica Foundation
