by Ian Marshall, ITTF Publications Editor (Interviews by Olalekan Okusan)

Notably in 1962 Emmanuel Quaye won the Men’s Singles title at the African Championships staged in Alexandria, the first time the tournament was staged. Two years later in Accra Ethel Jacks secured the Women’s Singles crown.  She retained the title in Lagos in 1968 and again in 1974 in Alexandria when the tournament was next organised.

Having promoted initiatives in Togo, Congo Democratic, Kenya, Nigeria, Cameroon and Algeria; the next stop for Sarah Hanffou was Ghana.

“I am convinced that sport is a vector for social cohesion and a tool to foment important values like solidarity and respect. Physical activity is also a great way to achieve personal well-being. It is in this frame, we want to create an international solidarity chain involving table tennis players, clubs and nationals federations into our projects. Moreover, we guide and raise awareness in the long term among local associations with the developing of their structure and actions.” Sarah Hanffou

Impressed with the efforts being made; equipment was donated to the Western Table Tennis Club, Ghana Table Tennis Club and Ghana Immigration Service.

“I hope this visit will mark the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration between Ping Sans Frontières and the Ghanaian clubs.” Sarah Hanffou

Furthermore, Sarah Hanffou met coaches and players to exchange ideas with the aim of popularizing the sport. It proved a most satisfying visit.