by Olalekan Okusan

In a statement signed by Khaled El-Salhy, ATTF President, the annual African Senior Championships, originally scheduled for May, are now planned for Wednesday 1st to Tuesday 7th September in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

“I wish all table tennis friends and colleagues that you keep safe and stay healthy in the current circumstances due to the continuation of the Covid-19 pandemic, the third and fourth waves. We are closely monitoring the global and continental situations day by day, acknowledging the expansion of the pandemic throughout the world; more than 140 million infected cases with more than 4.5 million in Africa until today.” Khaled El-Salhy

Therefore, with the current situation very much in mind, the African Senior Championships have been moved to a date later in the year, thus enabling players to prepare thoroughly for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

“Although Cameroon confirmed that it would be able to host the most important event for ATTF at the end of May 2021, we believe that, given the current circumstances, it is the fairest and safest decision for our players as they prepare for the Olympic Games, navigating global uncertainty concerning travel and training restrictions plus quarantine procedures. The well-being of all those involved in our sport remains our number one priority.” Khaled El-Salhy

Note: The deadline for nominations for elections by national associations to the ATTF Council Board and ITTF Board of Directors is Saturday 15th May 2021.