Confederation of African Canoeing activities

Growth and development in Africa 

In November, the African canoeing family gathered in Antalya, Turkey, for the ICF Congress to discuss the continued development of the sport across the continent.  

Key topics included the planning of the upcoming African Cup and how the Confederation of African Canoeing (CAC) can further support National Federations in their growth and development.  

Empowering coaches and expanding talent in Ghana and Angola 

In a major step towards developing new talent and expertise in canoeing, the CAC, in collaboration with the National Federations of Ghana and Angola, successfully organised Level One Canoe Sprint coaching courses in both countries.

Ghana: A total of 25 new coaches (21 men and four women) participated in the course held in Ghana from November 25 to December 1. The Opening Ceremony was graced by the presence of the Deputy Director of Sports Cristina Ashley and Ghana Olympic Committee President Ben Noonu Mensah. The course was a significant milestone in growing the sport in the country and across the African continent. 

Angola: The Portuguese-speaking coaching course held in Luanda, Angola from December 2 to 8 saw 35 participants (27 men and 8 women) engaging in hands-on learning. This course was specially tailored to meet the needs of Portuguese-speaking nations, strengthening canoeing’s presence in the region. The Angolan Olympic Committee played a pivotal role in the successful organisation and execution of this initiative, ensuring the training's success.

Looking ahead: African canoeing’s future 

These coaching courses are just one example of how the African canoeing family is working hard to improve the sport's infrastructure and grow its talent pool across the continent. The continued partnership with National Federations will ensure the long-term development of the sport, with a focus on education, capacity-building, and competition. As the next African Cup approaches, the CAC is excited about the progress made so far and looks forward to even greater achievements in the future.

By Joao Manuel Da Costa Alegre, President of the Confederation of African Canoeing