by Olalekan Okusan, ITTF-Africa Press Officer
A veritable feast of high class play is on the menu; excitement is high; a fact reflected at the press conference staged on Thursday 31st October.
Seated alongside Patrice N’zi, Vice President of the Fédération Ivoirienne de Tennis de Table and Patrick Deleba, Secretary-General, the occasion was opened by Professor Germain Karou, President of the Fédération Ivoirienne de Tennis de Table and also Secretary General of Western Africa Region.
“We have put everything in place to ensure a smooth tournament, thanks to the huge support from the ITTF coupled with the backing from the government of Côte d’Ivoire, we are ready to host the best regional championship. As the region with the largest number of countries, I am happy to inform you that 11 of the 15 countries will be in Abidjan for the tournament; this is indeed an encouragement for us in the region. On behalf of the President, ITTF West Africa, Wahid Oshodi, I am happy to officially open the tournament and welcome all our visitors to Abidjan, one of Africa’s cities of pride.” Germain Karou
Oba Kizito
The national association is ready and so is 24 year old Oba Kizito, he has been preparing intensely in recent months.
“I have been training for this tournament for the last two months, particularly at my base in Paris. There is no doubt that we have a lot of good players in the region. I am confident that I will be unstoppable. We are in for a good tournament and I am sure I can mount the podium when the tournament ends on Sunday 3rd November 3, 2019.” Oba Kizito
Positive but Oba Kizito is aware of the quality of the field. He is well aware there will be strong opposition.
“I know that Nigeria and Ghana are top teams but their pedigree cannot intimidate me at home. I am sure that I can make my country proud in this tournament. I look forward to an exciting tournament with support from the home fans. I am ready to do my best and I hope my best will see me through.” Oba Kizito
Notably Papa Lamine, National Technical Director, also believes the Ivory Coast players are ready to make their country proud. He has full confidence in Oba Kizito.
In Abidjan Oba Kizito will be joined in the men’s event by Kouassi Ange. Nadia Kamenan will lead the women’s team alongside Aka Tatiana.