The Ivorian reflected on the 50th anniversary of the Continental Games, with the first edition also held in Brazzaville, in a message which he dedicated to Africa’s youth ahead of the multi-sport event commencing.

“Today, you have the ultimate opportunity to crown 50 years of this colourful sports festival,” he said.

“Take full advantage of these beautiful Games, which are coming at a defining moment, following the adoption of Agenda 2020 by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

“This pathfinder of world sport, to which the African Olympic Movement contributed fully, seeks to better disseminate Olympic values and strengthen policies on sports practice.”

The buld-up to the event has not always been a smooth one, with a row between ANOCA and the African Union Sports Council over who owns the Games contributing to a lack of interest among some athletes athletes.

Around 500 athletes are still expected to attend the two-week long event, which will see medals awarded in athletics, badminton, basketball, boxing, cycling, fencing, football, gymnastics and weightlifting.

Palenfo has nevertheless praised the work of Brazzaville 2015 and the Government of the host country ahead of welcoming the athletes for competition.

“Great credit of course goes to Congo, this wonderfully hospitable country, which will host this event with an innovative and forward-looking sports programme for you, and at your service," he said. 

“The Government of this country, to which we extend our sincere gratitude, has provided you with quality infrastructure of international standing, so that you can enjoy exceptional moments and make a show of your talents.

“The state-of-the-art facilities are a gift from the authorities of this country to you.”

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