Date: January 10, 2023
In a historic signing ceremony on January 10, 2023, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) and the Egyptian Badminton Federation (EBF) formalized their collaboration on the enhanced membership grant project. Egypt, selected as the pilot country among 150 nations, aims to spearhead the development of badminton across various domains, including participation, performance, and events.
The journey towards this significant partnership began in October and November of the previous year when the BWF engaged in intensive discussions with the EBF board and key stakeholders, such as the Ministry of Sports and the badminton community. The objective was to devise a comprehensive strategic plan, starting with a rebranding initiative for the Egyptian Badminton Federation (EBF) logo and the introduction of a new visual identity.
The culmination of these efforts was marked by the official launch of the project on January 10, 2024, witnessed by the Honorable Dr. Ashraf Sobhy, Minister of Youth and Sports. Representing the BWF at the signing ceremony was Dr. Sawsan Taqawi, a BWF Council Member, while EBF was represented by its President Dr. Ali Hasaballah. Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA) was represented by Mr. Hesham El-Tohamy – BCA Council Member.
During his speech at the ceremony, Mr. Hesham El-Tohamy, BCA Council Member, expressed the historic significance of the moment for Badminton Egypt, emphasizing the progress and determination showcased for the future. He conveyed the EBF’s gratitude for receiving the project from the BWF and pledged to maximize the use of the developmental facilities at their disposal.
“This is a historic moment for Badminton Egypt as it is showing progression and determination for the future. We are very happy to have received this project from the BWF, and we will make sure that we make the most of the development programs that will be put at our disposition,” said Mr. Hesham El-Tohamy.
Dr. Ali Hasaballah, President of EBF, echoed these sentiments, expressing extreme happiness at being the first country to undertake such a project. He thanked the BWF for granting this opportunity and expressed confidence that with the assistance of this initiative, Egypt would be able to develop more areas and nurture future badminton champions.
“We are extremely happy to be the first country to be doing this project, and we thank the BWF for granting us this opportunity. We believe that with the help of this project, we will be able to develop more areas and be able to create more champions,” said Dr. Ali Hasaballah.
The enhanced membership grant project signifies a milestone in the collaborative efforts between the BWF and the Egyptian Badminton Federation, promising a brighter future for badminton in Egypt and potentially serving as a blueprint for the sport’s development globally.
