Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire - The President of the Senate, Kandia Camara, was honored by the Confédération africaine de handball (CAHB) on September 22, 2026, for her role in promoting handball development in Africa. The award was presented at the Palais des Sports in Treichville, Abidjan, following the conclusion of the 22nd African Cadet Men's Handball Championship. The recognition was given in appreciation of her commitment to the growth and popularity of handball on the continent.
The CAHB President, Dr. Mansourou Arémou, presented the award to Kandia Camara, acknowledging her efforts in supporting the development of handball in Africa. Camara expressed her gratitude to the CAHB for choosing Côte d'Ivoire to host the 33rd African Junior Men's Handball Championship and the 22nd African Cadet Men's Handball Championship. She also congratulated the President of the Fédération ivoirienne de handball (FIHB), his collaborators, the Ministry of Sports, and all stakeholders involved in the successful organization of the competitions.
The Senate President praised the quality of performances displayed by the participating teams, noting that the level of play demonstrated the progress made by African handball. She emphasized that the championships had a broader significance beyond the sporting aspect, highlighting their importance for African youth and unity. Camara stated that the events showcased the continent's potential and the efforts invested by federations, clubs, and coaches in developing the sport.
The two championships, held in Abidjan, brought together the best African teams in the junior and cadet men's categories. The junior championship took place from September 5 to 12, while the cadet championship was held from September 15 to 22. The events provided a platform for African teams to compete and demonstrate their skills, with the Senate President acknowledging the collective achievement of the participating nations.
Upon receiving the award, Kandia Camara emphasized that it was not just a personal recognition but also an honor for Côte d'Ivoire, its people, and the Senate institution she leads. She highlighted the significance of handball in promoting African values and unity, stating that the sport brings people together and fosters a sense of shared identity.
The CAHB's recognition of Kandia Camara's efforts underscores the importance of collaboration between sports organizations and government institutions in promoting handball development in Africa. The Senate President's involvement in supporting the championships demonstrates the role that leaders can play in fostering a culture of sports and healthy competition on the continent.
The successful hosting of the championships in Côte d'Ivoire demonstrates the country's capacity to organize major international sports events. The events have contributed to the growth of handball in Africa, and the CAHB's recognition of Kandia Camara's efforts is expected to inspire further investment in the sport.
Key points
- Kandia Camara was honored by the CAHB for her role in promoting handball development in Africa.
- The 33rd African Junior Men's Handball Championship and the 22nd African Cadet Men's Handball Championship were held in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, from September 5 to 22, 2026.
- The CAHB's recognition of Kandia Camara's efforts highlights the importance of collaboration between sports organizations and government institutions in promoting handball development in Africa.
