Christophe Bokpè, a former Beninese international footballer, has returned to his homeland with a new project aimed at promoting athletics among primary school children. The initiative, titled "Initiation des enfants du cours primaire à la pratique de l'athlétisme," seeks to inculcate the values of athletics in young Beninese. Bokpè is working with experts from the Italian Association Academy Motus Africa to implement the project.
The project will start in the Zou department, with five primary schools in the historic city of Abomey selected to host the first training sessions. The program aims to provide a healthy environment for children, promote inclusion through sports, and lay the foundations for a sustainable athletic culture in Benin. The launch event is scheduled for October 3, 2026, and has generated significant excitement among local schoolchildren.
The initiative has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Beninese Ministry of Sports and Civic Engagement. On September 29, 2026, Bokpè and his Italian partners met with the Director of Cabinet of the Minister, where they presented their plan and secured institutional backing. A working session was also held with officials from the Beninese Athletics Federation to discuss potential partnerships.
The project's organizers have a busy schedule ahead, with meetings planned with local authorities, including the Mayor of Abomey, Franck Métolé Kpassassi, and the President of the National Assembly, Joseph Djogbénou. These engagements aim to foster collaboration and ensure the long-term sustainability of the initiative. The involvement of various stakeholders has been hailed as a positive development for Beninese sports.
The project's focus on athletics is significant, given the sport's potential to promote physical activity, teamwork, and discipline among young people. By targeting primary school children, the initiative aims to identify and nurture athletic talent from an early age. The involvement of Italian experts is expected to bring new skills and knowledge to the project.
The project's impact could extend beyond the sports sector, contributing to the development of Benin's education system and promoting social inclusion. By providing a healthy and supportive environment for children, the initiative may help address some of the country's social challenges. The project's success will depend on the continued support of stakeholders and the engagement of local communities.
As the project prepares to launch, there is a sense of optimism about its potential to make a positive impact on Beninese sports. With the backing of various stakeholders and the expertise of Italian partners, the initiative may help to usher in a new era for athletics in Benin. The project's progress will be closely watched, as it seeks to promote athletic development and social inclusion in the country.
Key points
- Christophe Bokpè and Italian experts launch project to promote athletics among primary school children in Benin.
