Luanda to Host 2024 African Swimming Championships with 42 Countries Participating

Luanda, Angola will host the 16th edition of the Absolute African Swimming Championships from April 30 to May 5, 2024. This will mark the first time Angola hosts the biggest swimming competition on the African continent, with 42 countries expected to participate in both pool and open water events.

The pool events will take place at the Alvalade swimming pool in the capital city of Luanda, while the open water competitions will be held at Ilha de Luanda. Angola has previously participated in six editions of the African Swimming Championships in other countries, with their best performance coming in 1998 in Nairobi, Kenya, where they finished third in the overall medal tally. "Angola becomes the ninth host nation of the African Cup of Nations (CAN) swimming championships," according to the Angolan Swimming Federation (FAN).

Why this matters: Hosting the African Swimming Championships signifies a notable achievement for Angola and showcases the country's growing presence in aquatic sports on the continent. The event will bring together top swimmers from across Africa, fostering international cooperation and friendly competition.

South African swimmers have historically dominated the African Swimming Championships, winning 10 titles including the latest edition held in Tunis, Tunisia. Angola's highest medal haul came in the 2021 championships in Accra, Ghana, where they won six bronze medals. With Angola hosting the event for the first time, the Angolan Swimming Federation and local organizers are gearing up to deliver a successful and memorable competition for all participating nations.

Key Takeaways

• Luanda, Angola to host 16th African Swimming Championships in 2024.
• First time Angola hosts this major continental swimming competition.
• 42 countries expected to participate in pool and open water events.
• Angola's best performance was 3rd place in 1998 in Nairobi, Kenya.
• Event to showcase Angola's growing presence in aquatic sports in Africa.