Monrovia – The Liberia Surfing Association (LSA) has said it’s thrilled to announce the resounding success of the first Africa Surf 24 event under the theme ‘Africa Force’ held in Robertsport, Liberia.
The event brought both economic and social benefits to Robertsport and its surrounding areas.
This event, organized in collaboration with the African Surf Confederation (ASC), has made a significant impact on the country’s local economy, unified the Robertsport community, and elevated the sport of surfing in Liberia to new heights.
The surfing event, 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.
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.
According to a release from LSA, 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.”
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.
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, according to the organizers.
“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,” organizers said.
The LSA said they are committed to promoting surfing as a sport that can positively impact the lives of the youth. Plans are underway to establish a surfing school academy in Liberia, where children can learn to surf while continuing their education, organizers added.
“This initiative aims to provide a structured environment for young surfers, supporting their development and encouraging them to pursue their dreams.”
Following the success of the Robertsport event, the LSA and ASC are planning another surf event in Monrovia, further extending the reach and impact of surfing in Liberia.
LSA said it is 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.
“We 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 statement said.
The LSA congratulated the winners of the Robertsport surfing event including, Cherif Fall, Senegal – First Place; Sampson Paul Sibanda, South Africa – Second Place; Robertney Barros, Cabo Verde – Third Place and Ismaila Samb, Senegal – Fourth Place.
The winners in the Women’s category include Deguene Thioune, Senegal – First Place, and Aita Diop, Senegal – Second Place.
LSA said these athletes 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.
