The Liberia Surfing Association (LSA) has announced the conclusion of the first Africa Surf 24 event, themed ‘Africa Force’ held in the picturesque coastal town of Robertsport.
This landmark surfing competition, organized in collaboration with the African Surf Confederation (ASC), has brought substantial economic benefits, unified the local community, and propelled the sport of surfing in Liberia to unprecedented heights.
The collaborative effort with the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of State, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs facilitated infrastructure improvements, including road works and better facilities for future events at Robertsport’s renowned point breaks.
During the Africa Surf 24 week, Robertsport’s hospitality sector thrived, with all local lodgings and hotels fully booked.
Local businesses, from caterers to chair rentals, experienced a surge in patronage. Mayor Thomas Bai Massaquoi remarked, “Everyone made money, and the community thrived. This event has shown the potential of surfing to transform our economy.”
The competition fostered a sense of unity, drawing citizens together in support of a common cause. The sight of young Liberian surfers riding the waves alongside peers from across Africa inspired many, underscoring the sport’s potential to uplift youth and communities.
The success of Liberian surfers against world-class athletes has ignited nationwide interest in surfing. The LSA is now focused on promoting surfing as a beneficial sport for youth, with plans to establish a surfing school academy in Liberia.
This initiative aims to offer structured training while supporting the educational pursuits of young surfers.
Following the Robertsport event’s success, the LSA and ASC are planning another surf competition in Monrovia, further extending surfing’s reach and impact in Liberia.
The LSA is committed to providing more coaching and development opportunities, ensuring Liberian surfers can compete on the global stage and extends gratitude to all sponsors and supporters, particularly President Joseph Boakai, whose unwavering support was instrumental in the event’s success.
The collaborative efforts of the Liberian government, the ASC, and the local community were pivotal in realizing this achievement and the winners of the Robertsport surfing event were celebrated for their exceptional performances.
In the men’s category, Cherif Fall from Senegal took first place, followed by Sampson Paul Sibanda from South Africa, Robertney Barros from Cabo Verde, and Ismaila Samb from Senegal.
In the women’s category, Deguene Thioune and Aita Diop, both from Senegal, secured first and second places, respectively.
Oumar Seye, President of the African Surf Confederation, lauded the event as a resounding success, emphasizing Liberia’s potential as a premier surfing destination.
“With good waves across our coastline, we can turn the tide of poverty by encouraging everyone to join the surfing community and boost the economy through job creation,” he stated.
Naquetta Rick, President of the Liberia Surfing Association, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the commitment of the LSA, ASC, and the Liberian government to building a thriving surf tourism culture.
“Together, we are dedicated to promoting Liberia’s growth, unity, and opportunities for all,” Rick affirmed.
The Africa Surf 24 event has undoubtedly marked a significant milestone in Liberia’s journey towards becoming a key player in the global surfing community, while simultaneously driving economic growth and fostering national unity.
