The first-ever African School Games officially opened with grandeur on the evening of 26 July 2025, drawing youth athletes from across the continent to Annaba’s 19 May 1956 Stadium for a celebration of unity, sportsmanship, and Olympic ideals.
Organised under the auspices of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), in collaboration with the International School Sport Federation (ISF) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the 10-day event marks a historic milestone in African youth sports development.
The Games, running from 26 July to 5 August, span four key Wilayas in eastern Algeria—Annaba, Constantine, Skikda, and Sétif.
“The maiden African School Games afford a unique opportunity to promote Olympic values, develop the sports talents of young Africans and consolidate solidarity among Africans,” organisers stated.
The competition features twenty-five disciplines, ranging from athletics and football to gymnastics and martial arts, providing a platform for emerging athletes to showcase their talent on a continental stage.
Participating nations have sent contingents of young athletes to represent their schools and countries, with The Gambia confirming participation in six of the sporting disciplines.
This inaugural edition is viewed as a springboard to foster a new generation of African sports leaders and role models, rooted in the Olympic principles of excellence, friendship, and respect. Organisers are optimistic the Games will inspire greater investment in school sports programmes, as well as intercontinental partnerships that support education through athletics.
As Algeria hosts this momentous event, the spotlight turns not only to podium finishes but also to the celebration of cultural diversity, fair play, and the shared aspirations of Africa’s youth.
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