TTPresent at the ITTF-Africa Senior Championships in Algiers, on Sunday 4^th September, Petra Sörling attended the Annual General Meeting of the African Table Tennis Federation.

Following the meeting she answered members’ questions.

What has been your impression of Africa in terms of table tennis growth since you assumed office as ITTF President?
Knowing the table tennis situation in Africa very well, I actually lived in Kenya in 2008 and 2009, I know there is a lot of commitment, but I also know we have to start from different levels. Africa is a very big continent and there are different challenges. What I see here is that the level of play is higher than I expected. There is good competition between the top teams but of course, the level of participation in terms of numbers could have been better or higher. I will encourage the African Table Tennis Federation to look into this matter.

What are the takeaways from the Congress and meetings with the African leaders in Algiers?
The takeaway from the African Congress is that there were good discussions and engagement. There are also many potential organisers of events for next year, which I think is also a positive sign in terms of development. Unfortunately, not all 54 members were present, this is also something to look into for the future and how to make it so that everyone can attend despite the cost. In general, it was very professionally organised. I felt also there was a positive atmosphere and I felt that neighbours wanted the best for table tennis. It was really a pleasure to attend.

South Africa will host the World Championship in 2023, what are your expectations from the host and the continent?
I’m expecting the World Championships in Durban to be something very different from other World Championships. We haven’t been to Africa since 1939 in Egypt, the lesson from that event and 2018 in Sweden is that every country has to do things its own way. Yes, of course, we should look and learn from China this year but mainly Durban should try to do their own thing and to make this championship an African championship. Also, there must be a focus on social responsibility. I know that is very much needed as well as creating legacies. It means that not only focusing on the events next year but what will be the legacy after the event in Durban and South Africa, this is what I like to see the focus on.

What areas do you think the continent still needs focus and what advice can you offer?
Well, there is a big passion for table tennis and for sport in Africa. I would like the African members to remain confident, believe in themselves and organise events. Hosting events makes table tennis more visible for young players in different countries, and through this, we can help grow the sport in all areas of Africa. I think what is needed is to spread and have diversity within Africa and the whole continent. I think the ATTF together with its members is on a good pathway. I just want to see that the speed of the transformation is ongoing. It is always good to have high ambitions.

Where do you see Africa in terms of good governance in the next few years?
Already through the continental agreement, we are working hard to improve good governance in all areas of table tennis. I see that Africa, as well as other continents, has improved a lot. However, this is a work which is never ending. I hope with the structure that is in place, the ITTF through the Members Relations Department can support in this area.

How can African member associations benefit from hosting WTT events next year?
2022 is the first year with so many different WTT events and I look forward to more events hosted by African countries next year. I believe what Tunisia did by starting with youth is good. And I believe that World Table Tennis and Tunisia collaborated well to increased the level of presentation in the country. I hope and I’m sure more events, including WTT Series events, will take place in Africa in 2023.