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The FINA World Short Course Championships in Hangzhou, China will finally assess the progress of the African development and competitive swimming programme. No doubt, most of our National Federations have worked tremendously hard throughout the year to improve their respective standing in our continent. Sadly, a few countries still do not understand the importance of Good Governance which is crucial for the improvement of swimming standards. CANA is monitoring this aspect to ensure that all Federations comply with the principles of Good Governance.
In April, the FINA Water Polo Conference inspired Africa’s will and determination to intensify the development of the discipline in several countries. Next year, Egypt will organize the African Junior Water Polo Tournament. We are expecting many countries to participate.
This year saw the organizing of two major youth competitions. The African Youth Games were held in Algiers in July. This was followed by the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires in October. The Algiers sector, which also featured as a qualifying event for the Youth Olympic Games, witnessed some outstanding performances.
At the Buenos Aires Games special commendation must be conveyed to Egypt and South Africa. Their swimmers, not only managed to reach the finals, one even set a Youth Games record.
In September, CANA held its Senior Championships in Algiers. There was a record number of participating countries. And the ideal conditions of the pool resulted in numerous records being set.
Lack of adequate funding have, in the past, prevented some countries from participating in Zonal and Continental competitions. This should certainly not be an issue in the future. FINA will be providing $25 000.00 dollars for each country for various programmes. A fair amount of this subsidy must be allocated for participation in Zonal and Continental competitions. If this is not indicated in the application for funds to FINA, the application will be rejected.
Therefore, in future, we will witness the full involvement of all countries in all our competitions. And we will, undoubtedly, see further progress in African swimming.
Mr Sam Ramsamy
CANA President
FINA Vice President
IOC Member
