The president of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), Mustapha Berraf, has described the African Youth Games as a catalyst for unity, youth empowerment and social transformation on the continent.

Berraf stated this on Saturday night at the official opening of the 4th African Youth Games at the November 11 Stadium in Luanda, according to a statement by Tony Nezianya, the spokesman for the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC). 

The games, officially declared open on Saturday night, commenced on December 10 and scheduled to end on December 20.

“The African Youth Games is more than a sporting competition; it is a platform for unity, social transformation and the building of bridges among young Africans,” Berraf said.

He said the games reflect ANOCA’s commitment to nurturing young talents and using sports as a tool for peace and development across Africa.

Berraf noted that the games also serve as an important qualification pathway for the Youth Olympic Games scheduled for Dakar, Senegal, in 2026.

“These games provide our young athletes with a unique opportunity to qualify for Dakar 2026 and to showcase their talents on a global stage,” he said.

The ANOCA president commended Angola for hosting the games, describing it as a historic achievement, as it was the first time a Portuguese-speaking African nation had staged the event.

“Angola has demonstrated its capacity, modern infrastructure and deep commitment to the development of sport in Africa,” Berraf said.

ANOCA is the founder and organiser of the African Youth Games.

The opening ceremony featured a colourful parade of participating nations, officially marking the commencement of the Games in Luanda. 

(NAN)