The Central African Republic has successfully delivered its first Canoe Sprint Coach Course Level 01, marking a significant milestone in the development of the sport since joining the International Canoe Federation in 2024.
The nation hosted the course in the capital city of Bangui from March 8-15, bringing together 10 local coaches as part of ongoing efforts to expand canoeing disciplines across the region.
The programme was organised by the National Federation with support of the ICF and funding provided through the International Olympic Committee’s Olympic Solidarity Programme, highlighting a shared commitment to strengthening coaching capacity and grassroots development.
Cecile Digo-Kolingba, President of the Central African Canoe Kayak Federation, emphasised the course’s core objectives.
“The first aim of the training course was to provide future coaches with technical fundamentals, including mastery of specific movements, knowledge of competitive equipment, and water safety protocols,” said Mrs. Digo-Kolingba.
Hosting the course in the nation’s capital was an important decision, aimed at increasing accessibility and long-term impact.
“By training locally, we are democratising access to high-level international expertise, allowing a greater number of local coaches to benefit from it.”
“It was essential for our coaches to learn using our own waterways, and by training our technicians at home, we are laying the foundations for a sustainable national structure,” said Mrs. Digo-Kolingba.
Upon completion of the course, all participants are now certified coaches, marking an important step forward for the sport in the country.
Among them was coach Annick, who reflected on the experience and her future ambitions.
“Thanks to the technical skills I acquired during this course, I am committed to sharing this knowledge with my country’s athletes,” said Annick.
“My goal is to promote these disciplines so that together, we can fly our nation’s colours high on the international stage.”
Looking ahead, Mrs. Digo-Kolingba outlined a bold vision for the nation.
“Our ambition is to establish the Central African Republic as a leading hub for canoeing in Africa; my goal now is to see our paddlers shine on continental and international podiums,” she said.
The President noted the importance of access to high-quality equipment, identifying it as a key priority moving forward to ensure Central African athletes can compete at the highest level.
ICF Vice President Dr. Cecilia Farias underlined the broader significance of such initiatives for the global development of paddle sport.
“Growing paddle sports worldwide demands both financial and technical investment. In Africa, there is tremendous potential, alongside a need for sustained support to expand access and development opportunities,” said Dr. Farias.
“Through the IOC’s Olympic Solidarity Programme, we are able to support coaches, judges, and athletes - the foundation of the Olympic Movement.”
“The ICF remains committed to making paddle sports accessible to everyone, especially in communities where these opportunities can have the greatest impact,” said Dr. Farias.
This landmark initiative lays the groundwork for a structured and sustainable canoe sprint pathway in the Central African Republic, with a new generation of qualified coaches playing a central role in the sports development.
Related links
