The first Africa Surf 24 event, organized by the Liberia Surfing Association (LSA) in collaboration with the African Surf Confederation (ASC), took place in Robertsport, Liberia, under the theme “Africa Force” on June 21, 2024. This landmark event has garnered significant support from Liberian President Joseph Boakai and various government ministries, highlighting its importance not just as a sporting event, but as a catalyst for economic and social growth in the region. The initiative has also sparked an interest in surfing as a sport, reinforcing its status within the country and creating a sense of unity among its people.
The event’s organization involved collaboration with several government bodies, including the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Ministry of Youth and Sports, and others, facilitating essential road works and infrastructure development in Robertsport. This not only improved local facilities but also set the stage for hosting future surfing events in this renowned surf destination. The success of this event has particularly benefited the hospitality sector of Robertsport, with local accommodations fully booked and businesses reporting increased activity. The Mayor of Robertsport, Thomas Bai Massaquoi, highlighted the economic significance, stating, “Everyone made money, and the community thrived,” showcasing how surfing can be a pivotal influence in local economic transformation.
In addition to the economic benefits, Africa Surf 24 fostered a renewed sense of community among Robertsport residents. The event brought together young surfers from Liberia and other African countries, inspiring local children as they surfed alongside their peers. This camaraderie and shared passion for the sport underscore the ability of surfing to unite people, expanding interest and participation across diverse communities. Moreover, the participation of local surfers in competition with world-class athletes further raised surfing’s profile in Liberia, illustrating the emerging potential within the sport and invigorating discussions around its future in the country.
The LSA has ambitious plans to promote surfing as a transformative sport for youth in Liberia, with aspirations to establish a surfing academy that would allow children to learn surfing while continuing formal education. This initiative aims to support young surfers in developing their skills and pursuing their dreams in a structured environment. Following the success of the Robertsport event, the LSA and ASC have laid groundwork for future events in Monrovia, seeking to broaden the reach of surfing culture and its associated benefits throughout Liberia.
The organizers of Africa Surf 24 expressed deep gratitude to their sponsors, partners, and particularly President Joseph Boakai for his unwavering support. The joint efforts of the Liberian government, ASC, and local communities were pivotal in realizing this event. The results of the competition underscored the high level of talent present in Africa, with Cherif Fall from Senegal and Deguene Thioune, also from Senegal, claiming first place in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively. Others from countries such as South Africa and Cabo Verde showcased their skills, highlighting the competitive spirit and unity fostered by such events.
Emphasizing the long-term vision for Liberia as a surf tourism destination, Oumar Seye, President of the African Surf Confederation, stressed the nation’s potential in utilizing its abundant coastal resources to alleviate poverty and create job opportunities within the surf community. Naquetta Rick, President of the LSA, reiterated their commitment to fostering a thriving surf culture in Liberia, underlining the collective ambition to grow the sport and unlock numerous opportunities for unity and advancement across the country. Together, stakeholders underscore the significant promise of surfing as a tool for economic growth and community development in Liberia, aiming for continued success and sustainability in the years to come.
