Addis Ababa, the vibrant home of the African Union (AU), is gearing up to host the continent’s top table tennis talents for the 2024 ITTF Africa Championships, set to take place from October 12 to 19.
Optimism surrounds the event, with the hosts committed to delivering a memorable experience.
After a 24-year hiatus, Ethiopia’s capital and largest city is once again in the spotlight as it prepares to host this prestigious continental tournament.
In addition to the competition, the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF) will elect a new set of executives during the event.
Tesfaye Bizane, President of the Ethiopia Table Tennis Federation, sees this as an opportunity to not only celebrate the sport but also to highlight Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage.
“Hosting this tournament after 24 years is a unique opportunity to showcase Ethiopia’s history and cultural heritage, making it more than just a sporting event,” Bizane remarked. “Visitors can expect a warm welcome and a vibrant cultural experience in Ethiopia.”
As the birthplace of coffee, Ethiopia offers the chance to sample authentic coffee directly from its source. Guests can also explore attractions such as the National Museum, home to a 3.2-million-year-old fossil, as well as zoos, aquariums, the African Union Headquarters, and the Adwa Memorial Museum. This rich combination of history, culture, and hospitality promises to leave a lasting impression on all attendees.
Bizane emphasized the high expectations surrounding the tournament, noting that its success could significantly boost the popularity of table tennis in Ethiopia, attract international attention, and promote tourism, all while providing local athletes with a valuable platform to compete at the highest level.
“Our motivation to host this tournament stems from a desire to elevate the sport nationally, give local players a chance to compete at an elite level, and inspire a new generation of table tennis players,” Bizane explained. “As the seat of the African Union, we see Ethiopia as a second home for all delegates, and we are working hard to ensure a truly memorable experience for everyone.”
Ethiopia’s upgraded venue, which previously hosted the East African Championship, is now ready for the 2024 championships, thanks to support from the ITTF/ATTF.
