MONROVIA – The Liberia Surfing Association (LSA) is thrilled to announce the resounding success of the first Africa Surf 24 event, under the theme ‘Africa Force’ held in Robertsport, Grand Cape Mount Liberia. This landmark event, organized in collaboration with the African Surf Confederation (ASC), has made a significant impact on our local economy, unified the Robertsport community, and elevated the sport of surfing in Liberia to new heights.
The surfing event, fully supported by President Joseph Boakai and various divisions of the Government, brought both economic and social benefits to Robertsport and its surrounding areas, emphasizing the importance of the sport for Liberia.
Africa Tour 24 Liberia was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of State and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and it created opportunities for road works and some infrastructure development, ensuring better facilities and access for future events to one of the major point breaks in Robertsport.
All local lodging and hotels were fully booked, providing a significant boost to the hospitality sector of Robertsport during the week of the Africa Surf 24. Local caterers, chair rentals, and small businesses saw increased patronage, with many expressing their desire for such events to happen more frequently. The Mayor of Robertsport, Thomas Bai Massaquoi noted, “Everyone made money, and the community thrived. This event has shown the potential of surfing to transform our economy,” a release by the association said.
The release said the surfing event has added to a sense of unity among the citizens of Robertsport and the wider public bringing people together in support of a common cause, noting that the sight of young Liberian boys and girls riding the waves alongside their counterparts from other parts of Africa inspired many, highlighting the sport’s potential. “The success of our surfers competing against world-class athletes has raised the profile of surfing in Liberia, sparking conversations and interest across the nation.”
Accordingly, the LSA is committed to promoting surfing as a sport that can positively impact the lives of our youth, indicating plans that are underway to establish a surfing school academy in Liberia, where children can learn to surf while continuing their education. “This initiative aims to provide a structured environment for young surfers, supporting their development and encouraging them to pursue their dreams,” the release said.
Following the success of the Robertsport event, the Liberia Surfing Association and African Surf Confederation said they are planning another surf event in Monrovia, and to further extend the reach and impact of surfing in Liberia. “We are dedicated to providing more coaching and development opportunities for our surfers, ensuring they have the skills and support needed to compete on the world stage,” the release said.
The Surfers also extend our heartfelt thanks to all our sponsors and supporters, with special recognition to President Joseph Boakai for his unwavering support. The success of this event would not have been possible without the collaborative efforts of the Liberian government, the ASC, and the local community.
The release further congratulated the winners of the Robertsport surfing event in the men division including Cherif Fall, Senegal who won the First Place; Sampson Paul Sibanda, South Africa second Place; Robertney Barros, Cabo Verde, third Place; and Ismaila Samb, Senegal taking the fourth Place.
For the women’s division, they also congratulated Deguene Thioune of Senegal for first Place and Aita Diop, also of Senegal for the Second Place.
These athletes, the release said, have made us proud and demonstrated the incredible talent within Africa. Oumar Seye, President of the African Surf Confederation, emphasized, “The first African tour was an absolute success! Liberia is a country full of resources and potential.”
The also pointed out that the ASC is committed to supporting the government in promoting Liberia 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.”
President of the Liberia Surfing Association, Naquetta Rick said “Together, the LSA, ASC, and the Liberian government are dedicated to building a thriving surf tourism culture in Liberia, towards the country’s growth, unity, and opportunity for all,” the release concluded.
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