ANOCA officially opens London 2012 Africa Village

London, 29 July 2012: The Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) on Saturday 28 July 2012 inaugurated the London 2012 Africa Village. The event took place at the village site in London, host city of the 30th summer Olympics. The ceremony was graced by a host of dignitaries, amongst them Ivorian Head of State, Alassane Ouattara; Algerian Prime Minister, Ahmed Ouyahia; Her Majesty Princess Lalla Amina of Morocco; the First Vice President of the IOC, Thomas Bach; the former Governor General of Canada, Michaelle Jean, who is a major witness of the Francophonie at the London Olympics. Also in attendance were several African sports ministers and ambassadors. The inaugural ceremony featured two major highlights: First was the address presented by ANOCA President, Intendant General Lassana Palenfo, who began by welcoming all guests in attendance. He then went further to present Africa Village, which to him is a «meeting point to fraternise, celebrate, discuss and share ideas…A showcase for our cultural, touristic, economic and artistic potential. » On the importance of the London Olympics, he observed: «Sport unites various ethnic groups within an action and breeds unity in diversity. » He then turned to the African Government authorities in attendance: «We are most grateful and proud to welcome you today at Africa Village. Your untiring efforts to support our continent’s youths have enabled us, sportsmen and women, to fly the African colors very high…»

The second highlight was the guided tour of the exhibition stands set up by various African countries.

It should be recalled that the London 2012 Africa Village is an initiative of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa. It shall be open to the public for the entire duration of the Olympic Games. Africa Village will as such be an open communication avenue for Africa to get greater exposure by showcasing its rich natural, cultural and human potential. It is at a stone’s throw from Hyde Pak and comprises: Africa House, which is the official reception venue exclusive to ANOCA and African NCOs present in London; Africa Land on its part is a wide exhibition ground, which will be Africa’s window on the world. It is fitted with stands, each covering an area of 16 m2 and exhibiting continent’s rich cultural diversity. There is a public restaurant, with night shows scheduled throughout the event.

Africa village

Africa village

Africa village