The Badminton Confederation Africa (BCA) is proud to announce a new and exciting partnership with Yonex, one of the most respected badminton brands in the world. This partnership will help support the development of badminton across Africa and bring new hope and opportunities to many athletes and communities on the continent.
This important agreement was officially signed during a special ceremony held on April 23, 2025, in Xiamen, China, just before the BWF Annual General Meeting. The event was attended by senior officials from BCA and Yonex, as well as presidents and representatives of many national badminton federations across Africa. Their presence highlighted the importance of this partnership and how it will help shape the future of badminton in Africa.
The main goal of the partnership is to grow badminton across Africa, especially in countries where the sport is still new or developing. BCA and Yonex share the same vision: to make badminton accessible to everyone, including children, women, and players from rural and less privileged areas.
As part of the agreement, Yonex will provide important equipment support. This includes the supply of shuttlecocks for all BCA-sanctioned events, which are tournaments officially recognized by BCA. This equipment support will help improve the quality of competitions and training across the continent.
Yonex and BCA will also work closely with national badminton federations to organise local tournaments, training camps, and development programs. By giving players access to proper equipment and training opportunities, this partnership aims to identify and support new talent in Africa.
One of the most exciting parts of the partnership is that selected African athletes will get the chance to train at the Yonex Peter Gade Academy. Peter Gade is a former world-class badminton player, and his academy provides excellent coaching and world-class facilities. This opportunity will allow young African players to improve their skills, gain international exposure, and prepare for high-level competitions.
Another key focus is developing grassroots programs. BCA and Yonex will launch new projects with schools and local communities to introduce badminton to children who may never have played the sport before. These programs will help grow interest in badminton and encourage more young people to get involved in sports. They will also help promote values such as discipline, teamwork, and fair play.
In an interview with BCA TV, the BCA President, Mr Michel Bau stated:
“This partnership is very important for the growth of badminton in Africa as it will not only help athletes, but also member associations. This strategic partnership will definitely shape the future of badminton in Africa. As part of the agreement, Yonex will provide important equipment support. This includes the supply of shuttlecocks for all BCA-sanctioned events, which are tournaments officially recognized by BCA. This equipment support will help improve the quality of competitions and training across the continent.”
This new agreement is not just about equipment, it is about creating a strong foundation for the future of badminton in Africa. By working together, BCA and Yonex are building a better environment for current players and opening the doors for the next generation.
BCA would like to thank Yonex for its trust, support, and long-term commitment to African badminton. This partnership shows that with collaboration and the right resources, African badminton can rise to a higher level and inspire millions of people.
Together, we are creating new pathways, new dreams, and new champions.
