The President of the Africa Boxing Confederation (AFBC), Eyassu Berhanu (pictured), has hailed the African boxers for their spirited performance in the just-concluded 1st World Qualification Tournament in Busto Arsizio, Italy.
Berhanu urged the African boxers not to despair for failure to qualify in Italy, and now focus on the 2nd and final World Qualification Tournament scheduled for Bangkok, Thailand from May 26 to June 2.
Berhanu’s remarks come in the wake of Africa’s dismal show in Italy where none of the 68 boxers qualified for the Paris Olympics this year.
“While the result may not have met our expectations, the dedication and sportsmanship displayed by our boxers has not gone unnoticed,” Berhanu told AFBC Communications.
“The journey to the Olympics is indeed challenging and our boxers have displayed remarkable resiliance. I encourage them to maintain their focus and prepare well for the upcoming World Qualification Tournament in Thailand. Let’s use the Italy experience as a catalyst for change and growth,” he urged.
Outlining AFBC’s strategic plan, Berhanu said the African body will work in concert with its affiliates to prioritise grassroots boxing to nurture young talent as well as conducting training programs, academies and grassroots competitions.
He said constant exposure in major international competitions is of paramount importance for boxers to master different styles of boxing. AFBC will also conduct coaching courses to ensure they keep coaches abreast with the changing trends in boxing.
He emphasised on the need for constant visibility of African boxing on social and mainstream media to attract more fans and sponsors.
“AFBC wants to foster the growth and success of boxing across the continent, ultimately its status and competitiveness on the world stage,” he noted.
Below is Berhanu’s statement on Africa’s performance in the Olympic Qualifying event in Italy:
Dear African Boxing Community,
I extend sincere gratitude to all African boxers who participated in the 1st World Olympic Qualification tournament in Italy.
While the results may not have met our initial expectations, the dedication and sportsmanship displayed by our boxers has not gone unnoticed. This serves as an opportunity for national federations to further invest in our boxers, reinforcing their strengths, and addressing any technical weaknesses.
We acknowledge the concerns raised regarding potential biased decisions, particularly in cases involving Pedros Gomes and Yusuf Changalawe. We are committed to conducting a thorough review, working closely with relevant authorities to ensure fairness in future competitions.
The journey to the Olympics is indeed challenging, and our boxers have demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite the setbacks faced in Italy, I encourage them to maintain their focus and prepare for the upcoming 2nd World Olympic Qualifiers in Bangkok, Thailand. This presents a renewed opportunity, and we firmly believe in the talent and determination of our athletes to secure spots for the Paris Olympics.
I also take this opportunity to commend the 18 African boxers who have already secured their tickets to Paris, showcasing the continent’s boxing prowess. Boxers from Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Tunisia, Zambia, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have notably demonstrated excellence, and we celebrate their achievements.
As we navigate ahead, let us remain united in supporting our boxers, fostering an environment of fair competition, and ensuring that the enduring spirit of the sport prevails.
Sincerely,
Eyassu Berhanu
President, African Boxing Confederation
Credit: AFBC Communications
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