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13th African Games Themed ‘Experience the African Dream’ Opens

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13th African Games 2024

By Kestér Kenn Klomegâh

Under the theme Experience the African Dream the 13th African Games kicked off, with a spectacular official opening, to showcase the unique cultural heritage, sporting talent of the African continent and its diversity at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium in Accra, the capital city of the Republic of Ghana. The significance of the venue was described as the land of Kwame Nkrumah, the cradle of panafricanism.

The Games, organized in collaboration with the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) and the Association of Africa Sports Confederations (AASC) following a Negotiated Agreement signed in February 2023 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, was graced during the grand opening ceremony by Nana Akufo Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana; Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson of African Union Commission; and Amb. Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development (HHS) at the African Union Commission, among others.

Nana Addo Dankwa- Akufo Addo, the President of the Republic of Ghana, and the host of the African Games, provided extraordinary leadership and personal commitment to ensure that Ghana delivers a successful edition of the African Games. The vast political, financial and material investment that Ghana has deployed, shows yet another testament to the unwavering commitment to the ideals of African unity. Most importantly, the African Games are also an opportunity to highlight the values of fair play, equality, discipline, inclusion, perseverance, tolerance, and teamwork; these are considered as invaluable keys for building character and peaceful societies.

Throughout history, African athletes have credibly performed in international sports competitions. For instance, the Rugby World Cup Paris 2023, the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, the World Athletics Championship in Budapest and many others. These demonstrate sportsmanship and inspire the next generation. Sports is a powerful platform for human connection.

History of the African Games: The historical roots of the African Games trace back to a General Assembly of African Ministers of Youth and Sport in Dakar, Senegal, in 1963, leading to the inaugural event in Brazzaville, Congo, in 1965. The success of these games led to the creation of the Supreme Council for Sports in Africa (SCSA), which was recognized by the Organization of African Unity (OAU) as the official coordinating body for continental sports. In 2013, the SCSA was dissolved, transferring all functions to the African Union Commission, and in 2016, the African Union Sports Council Secretariat was established to further sports development and coordinate the African Games.

About the African Games: The African Games, a property of the African Union and coordinated by the AU Sports Council, are convened quadrennially, acting as a precursor to the Olympics. They serve as a celebration of athletic excellence, African cultural heritage, and unity. The event plays a pivotal role in advancing youth education, gender equality, and social cohesion, aligning with the aspirations of Agenda 2063 for “The Africa We Want.”

The Games were established to foster high-performance sports and cultural exchanges among African Union Member States. Organized every four years, these games adhere to rules set by the African Union Specialized Technical Committee for Youth, Culture, and Sports (STC-YCS). The African Union Sport Council Technical Committee for the African Games oversees the evaluation of hosting bids and the overall organization by the Local.

Organizational efforts for the 2024 Games involve collaboration between the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) and the Association of Africa Sports Confederations (AASC). This partnership, established through an agreement signed in February 2023 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, emphasizes the collective commitment towards the successful execution of the 13th Edition of the African Games.

About the 13th Africa Games: The 2024 13th African Games, set to be hosted in Accra, Ghana, represent a landmark occasion as it marks the first time the nation will host this esteemed continental sports event. Spanning 15 days, the event will see participation from over 5,000 athletes from across Africa, highlighting the country’s capability to organize major events.

This year’s games will feature over 5,000 athletes vying in 29 sports disciplines, including eight that will serve as qualifiers for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The cities of Accra and Cape Coast will host the events from March 8 to 23, 2024. Competitions will span across sports codes like arm wrestling, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball (3×3), and several others, held in venues such as the Accra Sports Stadium and the University of Ghana Stadium.

According to the African Union, representing over 60% of Africa’s population, healthy and well-educated young Africans are the continent’s best vehicle to transform Africa. Therefore, investing in sports is one of the best ways to implement the AU’s Agenda 2063.

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Unveiling the Thrill of Online Casinos: Slots, Games, and More

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Online Casinos

The innovation of online casinos has transformed how people enjoy leisure and gaming activities. From anywhere and at any time, online casinos have opened their doors to literally everyone, ensuring that the most convenient and exciting kinds of entertainment are within reach.

Whether spinning the reels in popular slot games or plotting out the next move in poker, online casinos bring a virtual get-away like none other. For a deeper understanding of strategies, tips, and insights, one can look to resources such as blog.20bet.com, which provides very valuable information to make your gaming experience even better. Now, let’s get a closer look at the fascinating world of online casinos.

Online Casino Evolution

The journey of online casinos began in the mid-1990s with the advent of the Internet. Fast forward to today, and the industry has mushroomed into a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon. But to what can its phenomenal popularity be attributed?

Ease of Access and Convenience

One of the major reasons why online casinos have prospered is the convenience they offer. It means that with a smartphone, tablet, or computer, players can play any time, anywhere.

Multitude of Games

Unlike land-based casinos, online casinos offer a plethora of games on their roster. From classic table games like blackjack and roulette, to creative slots with engaging themes, there’s something for every gamer’s taste.

Slot Games: Entertainment for All

Slot games are the most enjoyed amusement in the world of online casinos. The simplicity of the game, combined with appealing graphics and lucrative bonuses, has made it a favorite both for amateur and professional players.

Why Slots Are a Favorite Among People

Easy to Play: Slots are the easiest casino game to play, and there is absolutely no need for experience or strategies.

Creative Themes: Starting from mythology to adventure, slot games are designed with various themes that attract players.

Jackpots: Progressive slots boast of life-altering jackpots which grow with each new spin.

Features of the Best Slots

High RTP: Games with high RTP percentages offer a very good chance of winning.

Bonus Rounds: Look out for slots offering free spins, multipliers, and more.

Mobile Compatibility: Make sure it works on your device.

Table Games: Where Strategy and Entertainment Meet

Table games will satisfy those who want to feel some strategy with their luck. In these games, players will need more engagement and are particularly rewarding when well played.

Popular Table Games

Blackjack: A game of skill and strategy, players try to outdo the dealer without going over 21. Roulette: A very exciting game of chance in which gamblers bet on where the ball will land on a spinning wheel. Poker: From Texas Hold’em to Omaha, poker is all about bluffing, strategy, and calculated risks. Tips for Table Games Success Understand the Rules: First, understand the rules and strategies of the game.

Free Games to Practice: Many sites offer free versions to hone your skills.

Bankroll Management: Set limits and stick to them to avoid overspending.

Live Casino Games: Bringing Realism to Your Screen

The introduction of live dealer games has narrowed the gap between traditional casinos and online casino games. In these games, real dealers host the games, and it is broadcast in real-time for an authentic experience right in your living room.

Advantages of Live Dealer Games

Real-Time Interaction: Chat with dealers and other players to create a social atmosphere.

High Stakes: Many live games cater to high rollers looking for more intense gaming sessions.

Variety: Enjoy games like live blackjack, baccarat, and game show-inspired titles like “Crazy Time.”

Bonuses and Promotions: Maximizing Your Experience

Online casinos often attract players with enticing bonuses and promotions. These offers can significantly enhance your gameplay if used wisely.

Common Types of Bonuses

Welcome Bonus: A reward for signing up, often including deposit matches and free spins.

No Deposit Bonus: Get a small bonus without making an initial deposit.

Loyalty Programs: Earn points with every wager and redeem them for rewards.

How to Choose the Best Bonus

Read the Terms and Conditions: Understand the wagering requirements beforehand.

Check the Validity Period: Make sure that the time given by the bonus is sufficient enough to meet its requirements.

Focus on Your Favorite Games: Some bonuses are game-specific. Choose ones that suit your interests.

Responsible Gaming: A Key Aspect of Enjoyment

While online casinos are a source of entertainment, it’s essential to practice responsible gaming to ensure a positive experience.

Tips for Responsible Gaming

Set a Budget: Decide on a spending limit before you start playing.

Take Breaks: Avoid long gaming sessions to maintain a healthy balance.

Know your Limits: Don’t chase losses; it’s better to walk away and try another day.

Tools at the Player’s Aid

Most online casinos include features for self-exclusion, setting deposit limits, and reality checks that may enable responsible gaming.

Future of Online Casinos

With technology Burke, the online casino industry is bound to reach newer heights. Following are a few trends that are going to shape its future:

Virtual Reality Casinos

Just imagine being inside a virtual casino playing games and communicating with other players, as if you were sitting across from each other. This is the reality that VR technology is bringing into being.

Cryptocurrency and Blockchain

Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, are becoming increasingly popular. They provide quicker transactions with added security. Fairness in gaming is ensured through the transparency provided by blockchain technology.

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NFF Appoints Former Mali’s Manager Eric Chelle as Super Eagles Coach

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Eric Chelle Super Eagles

By Dipo Olowookere

The former manager of Mali’s national football team, Mr Eric Chelle, has been appointed as the new head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

The appointment of Mr Chelle was announced on Tuesday night by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

The first job of the new coach will be to guide the home-base Super Eagles team to victory at the 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) co-hosted by the trio of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania from February 1–28, 2025.

He will work with the current Super Eagles B coaching staff, which includes Daniel Ogunmodede, Fidelis Ilechukwu, and Olatunji Baruwa, who successfully guided the team through CHAN qualifiers.

The biennial football tournament is organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and sponsored by an oil giant, TotalEnergies.

Mr Chelle would be expected to deploy his tactics to ensure a successful outing of the home-based Super Eagles at the competition and also revive the main team, according to the president of the NFF, Mr Ibrahim Gusau.

“We want whoever takes charge of the team to begin immediately, which is why the same coach will manage the CHAN Eagles.

“This allows us to identify promising home-based players who can contribute to the senior national team,” he stated.

Business Post reports that the new coach was favoured for the new job by the Technical and Development Sub-Committee of the federation and endorsed by the executive committee.

One of his biggest tasks will be to qualify the Super Eagles for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States of America (USA).

At the moment, Nigeria occupies fifth position and will play the next qualifiers in two months’ time.

Mr Chelle led the Mali national team to quarterfinals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. He is the latest foreign coach appointed by the NFF to manage the country’s national team.

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Arsenal, Liverpool in Carabao Cup Semifinal Action Live on GOtv

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Carabao Cup

The race for the first silverware of the 2024/25 season intensifies as Premier League leaders Liverpool and second-placed Arsenal will be in Carabao Cup semifinal action this midweek.

Arsenal will host Newcastle United in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, while Liverpool travel to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday. Both matches will be broadcast live on GOtv Channel 65 at 9 PM.

Fresh from their impressive 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Saturday, Newcastle will aim to build on their momentum and secure a favorable result ahead of the second leg at St. James’ Park. The Magpies have already defeated Arsenal 1-0 earlier this season, and another strong performance could leave the Gunners with a steep hill to climb in the second leg.

Newcastle will be without their influential captain, Bruno Guimarāes due to suspension, while Arsenal battle with illness issues in the squad which has seen Kai Havertz miss the last two matches.

Arsenal, who haven’t lifted the Carabao Cup in 31 years, view this competition as a vital chance for silverware, especially with their league title hopes fading.

On the other side of North London, Tottenham Hotspur face defending champions Liverpool, hoping to avoid a repeat of their 6-3 thrashing by their visitors just 17 days ago. Spurs have managed just one win in their last eight matches at home in all competitions—a narrow 4-3 victory over Manchester United in the quarterfinal. Their last taste of silverware came 17 years ago when they won this competition.

Meanwhile, Liverpool, who have lost just one match all season, are chasing an ambitious quadruple. A victory over Spurs on Wednesday would put them on the brink of securing a spot in the final at Wembley.

Football fans can enjoy all Carabao Cup matches, Premier League, Serie A, Laliga and Champions League action live by reconnecting or upgrading to the GOtv Super Plus package. Simply dial *288# to renew or upgrade your subscription.

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