With anticipation building ahead of the African Armwrestling Championship in Accra, Ghana (May 1–2, 2026), the Secretary General of the African Armwrestling Federation, Julien Boumsong, has spoken exclusively to Sports247—and his message is clear: Africa is ready for the next level.
The championship, scheduled for May, will serve as the official qualifier for the 2027 African Games in Egypt, placing enormous pressure on athletes across the continent to deliver when it matters most.
Speaking on the qualification process, Boumsong admitted the system is still evolving but firmly on track:
“We have put in place a qualification system that will help us during this African Championship. We are not perfect, but we are learning from our mistakes. The best is yet to come.”
AFRICA’S ARMWRESTLING BOOM
In recent years, armwrestling has exploded across Africa, and according to Boumsong, the Ghana championship is a defining moment for the sport’s global push.
He revealed that the federation is now investing in coach development, a move aimed at closing the gap with the world’s best.
“If you observe globally, it is the countries with the best coaches that dominate, and that is our challenge. That is why we are innovating with coach training this year.”
BIGGER, STRONGER, TOUGHER
After a record turnout at the previous championship in Abuja, expectations are even higher this time around.
Boumsong confirmed that participation is growing despite past logistical hurdles, and fans should expect a fiercely competitive tournament.
“Last year we had record numbers despite visa challenges. This year, the numbers are increasing again—and the level will be of high quality.”
He also paid tribute to key figures driving the sport’s rise, including Charles Osei Asibey and Samuel Jackson.
“From 2016 till today, with the dynamism of these leaders, African armwrestling has grown tremendously. Their sacrifices have brought the sport to this level.”
BEYOND GHANA—A BIGGER VISION
But for Boumsong, Ghana 2026 is just part of a larger mission.
The federation is also pushing inclusivity through Para Armwrestling, aligning with qualification pathways for the African Para Games.
“We want to ensure athletes with disabilities are brought into the spotlight. The West African Para Games was a success, and we are building from there.”
As the countdown to Ghana continues, the stakes couldn’t be clearer:
This is where Africa’s finest will fight for a place in Egypt 2027.
And if Boumsong’s words are anything to go by, the continent isn’t just competing… it’s evolving.
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