Africa Sets Sights on Badminton Glory at Los Angeles 2028
The Badminton Confederation of Africa (BCA) has launched an ambitious initiative designed to propel the continent onto the global badminton stage. The “Road to LA 2028” program, spearheaded in Abuja, Nigeria, aims to secure medals for African nations at the 2028 Olympic Games.
With key stakeholders from across the continent in attendance, the launch event emphasized the program’s focus on early preparation, resource mobilization, and talent development. BCA leaders assert that this comprehensive approach will not only change Africa’s narrative in badminton but also pave the way for sustained success.
“In Africa, we rarely plan four years ahead for the Olympics due to challenges like funding and resources,” explained Kingston Mulenga, BCA Deputy President.
He underscored Nigeria’s leadership in championing this program, stating, “This initiative offers a roadmap for other African nations to emulate, ensuring that our athletes are prepared to compete at the highest level.”
Francis Orbih, president of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN) and BCA Council member, reflected on the inspiration behind the program, citing Eniola Bolaji’s bronze medal win at the Paris 2024 Games as a watershed moment.
“Eniola Bolaji’s bronze medal at Paris 2024 was a watershed moment for African badminton,” said Orbih. “It showed that with the right preparation and support, Africa can succeed on the global stage. This program is about sustaining and surpassing that success. Starting early and pooling resources are critical to achieving our goals.”
The BCA President believes that transforming African badminton requires a collective effort.
“With support from the government, corporate sponsors, and individuals, I believe we can make Africa a global badminton powerhouse. Success attracts more success, and now is the time to invest in our athletes and their future,” Orbih stated.
The launch event was also attended by prominent figures from Nigeria’s sports community, including NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko, NOC President Habu Gumel, and African champion Anuoluwapo Opeyori.
How will the “Road to LA 2028″ program address the challenges African badminton players face on the international stage?
Africa Sets Sights on Badminton Glory at Los Angeles 2028
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re discussing an exciting development in African badminton. Joining us is [Guest Name], [Guest Title] with the Badminton Confederation of Africa. Thanks for being here.
**Guest:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** The Badminton Confederation of Africa recently launched the “Road to LA 2028” program. Can you tell us a bit more about this initiative?
**Guest:** Absolutely! This program is a major step forward for badminton in Africa. Our goal is to see African athletes standing on the podium at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. [[1](https://www.sportsvillagesquare.com/2024/12/03/nigeria-takes-centre-stage-as-africa-sets-sight-on-olympic-glory-in-badminton/)] We’re focusing on early preparation, providing resources to our athletes, and nurturing young talent. The launch in Abuja, Nigeria, was a resounding success, bringing together key stakeholders from across the continent who are equally passionate about achieving this dream.
**Interviewer:** What kind of challenges do African badminton players face on the international stage, and how will this program address them?
**Guest:** We face many challenges, including limited access to resources, coaching, and international competitions. This program aims to bridge that gap by establishing training camps, securing funding for travel and participation in major tournaments, and providing access to world-class coaching.
**Interviewer:** The 2028 Olympics are still a few years away. What are some of the milestones we can expect to see along the way?
**Guest:** We’ll be hosting regional training camps and tournaments leading up to the Olympics. We’re also working on establishing partnerships with international badminton federations to provide our athletes with more exposure and opportunities to compete at the highest level.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a truly ambitious undertaking. What message do you have for young aspiring badminton players in Africa?
**Guest:** We believe in your potential! This is a golden opportunity for African badminton to shine on the global stage. We encourage you to train hard, stay dedicated, and dream big.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your insights with us today. We wish you and the Badminton Confederation of Africa all the best in achieving your goals.
**Guest:** Thank you.
