The City of Luanda, Angola, recently hosted the technical meeting of Chefs de mission organized by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) in preparation for the 4th edition of the Angola 2025 African Youth Games. This event, scheduled to take place from December 10 to 20, 2025, coincides with the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence, making it a significant milestone for the country.
The meeting was attended by Chefs de Mission from various African countries, who gathered to discuss essential organizational issues, including technical information, accommodation, protocols, visas, accreditation, and local transport. The Organizing Committee of the African Youth Games (COJAJ) presented its structure, which is managed at the strategic level by the Minister of Sports, and includes Ministers of Finance, Health, Foreign Affairs, and other key stakeholders.
The sports program for the Games aims to be aligned with the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, featuring around 25 sports disciplines.
The competitions will be clustered in a geographic “triangle” (Luanda, Bengo, and Cacuaco Colibengo), with the longest distance between venues being approximately 69 kilometers. The COJAJ has also presented its plans for infrastructure, including the Citadelle Sportive pavilion, the Alvalade swimming pool, and the Tony Jesus Table Tennis Pavilion, among others.
ANOCA’s Vice-President, João Da Costa Alegre AFONSO, delivered a federating speech during the opening ceremony, emphasizing the historical importance of the meeting. He highlighted the fundamental philosophy behind the Games, which is to create conducive conditions for athletes to participate in regional and international competitions.
AFONSO also emphasized the importance of collaboration and exchange among participating countries, stating that the meeting is a unique occasion for Chefs de Mission to share experiences and ask questions.
The Angolan Government has demonstrated its commitment to the success of the Games, with ANOCA commending the government’s firm commitment to placing youth at the heart of the celebration through sport, ensuring excellence in all aspects of organization, and leaving a sustainable heritage in terms of infrastructure, knowledge, and opportunities. The government has also put in place measures to ensure the security, health, and integrity of the competitions, including vaccination against yellow fever, primary and emergency medical assistance, and strict anti-doping protocols.
The 4th African Youth Games are expected to be a celebration of unity, hope, and continental pride, bringing together athletes from across Africa to compete and showcase their talents.