by Olalekan Okusan ITTF-Africa Press Officer

It was for Alfred Bagueka Assobo, the President of Cameroon Table Tennis Federation, a dream fulfilled.

“The Centre will be a base for promoting table tennis in the country. It is good for the Central Africa region since the new facility can become the regional table tennis centre that will help to host camps and competitions. No one could be happier than me as the President of Cameroon Table Tennis Federation and Central Africa Region President on this historical day.” Alfred Bagueka Assobo

At a colourful event, Luc Assamba, the Mayor of Yaoundé, praised the Chinese government for enhancing the fortune of sport in Cameroon, while promising that the building would be well used.

Meanwhile, for the Ambassador, the gesture was part of the efforts by the Chinese government to improve the fortune of Cameroon players on the world ranking as well as in Africa. He explained that negotiations are in progress to hire a qualified coach from China who will be in charge of conducting the training programmes in the Centre.

After being present for three years in Cameroon, the Ambassador promised the continued commitment of China to support the development and promotion of table tennis in Cameroon. He praised the Chinese companies operating in Cameroon who supported the completion of the project and specifically Sanxhi International who built the centre in four months.

Bidoung Nkpatt explained that the centre became possible following the cordial relationship between Cameroon and China. In addition, the ambassador also donated office furniture comprising two tables; two computers, two printers and a refrigerator.

The Centre stands within the Yaoundé Multipurpose Sport Centre and comprises two offices, two restrooms, two dressing rooms and a balcony. In addition, the hall possesses a synthetic court mat. A total of six table tennis tables, one being a show court table, are available.