All Africa U-15 Championships 2021, in Ouidah, Benin – Egypt Clinched Gold
In the energetic city of Harare, Zimbabwe, a wave of excitement is sweeping through the badminton community as the stage is set for the much-anticipated All Africa U-15 Championships 2023 and the All Africa School Championships. Scheduled to take place back-to-back in December, these tournaments promise not only thrilling badminton action but also the celebration of youthful talent and sportsmanship. Originally planned for Thies, Senegal, the U-15 Championships had to change its venue due to unforeseen circumstances, leading to Zimbabwe proudly taking up the role of host.
The Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA) anticipates a gathering of around 10 countries, Algeria, Botswana, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Mauritius, Tunisia, South Africa, Uganda, Seychelles, Zambia, and Zimbabwe: each sending their best young talents to compete in the spirited tournaments. These events serve as crucial platforms for nurturing budding badminton stars and fostering a sense of camaraderie among the youth.
The last edition of the U-15 Championships, held in Ouidah, Benin, in August 2021, saw Egypt emerge as the dominant force, clinching gold in the Team event and all individual events. As the badminton community turns its attention to Zimbabwe, expectations are high, with Egypt, Mauritius, South Africa and Algeria emerging as potential frontrunners in what promises to be a fiercely competitive tournament.
Reflecting on the success of the previous U-15 Championships, Egypt secured an impressive haul of six gold medals, two silver medals, and three bronze medals. Mauritius followed closely with four medals, comprising three silver and one bronze, while Ghana secured three medals, including one silver and two bronze. The tournaments showcased not only the skill and talent of the young players but also the resilient spirit of sportsmanship.
Mr. Jeff Shigoli, CEO of BCA, expressed his delight at the upcoming championship, stating,
“I am very happy that these championships are finally happening. This championship is a huge event for our young players and the future stars of Africa, and the BCA and Badminton Zimbabwe have left no stones unturned to make sure that a safe environment is provided to all participants
The festivities extend beyond the U-15 Championships to include the All Africa School Championships, offering a unique platform for schools across the continent to showcase their badminton prowess. It’s an opportunity to witness the potential future champions emerging from school competitions.
As Zimbabwe takes center stage, the community eagerly awaits the dynamic contests that will unfold on the courts of Harare. Beyond the victories and defeats, these tournaments embody the spirit of collaboration, resilience, and the joy of playing the sport. The next few weeks are poised to be a celebration of youth, talent, and the enduring love for badminton, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of African sports.
