Adekoyejo Adegbesan, President of the Pan African Scrabble Association, has extended a warm welcome to participants as the East, Central, and Southern Africa Scrabble Championship (ECASA) 2024 commenced in the vibrant city of Gaborone, Botswana.
Forty 40 elite players from the five countries are vying for the coveted titles and a lucrative prize purse of $2,515 in a competitrion being held at the Ave Maria Hotel and Conference in the capital.
In a heartfelt statement, Adegbesan commended the players for braving significant costs and challenges to attend the prestigious event, representing their countries with immense pride and dedication.
“It is your commitment and passion that serve as the engine room propelling the growth and success of Scrabble in our region. You are not just players; you are the heartbeat of our community,” he remarked.
Adegbesan expressed his gratitude to the presidents of the ECASA countries for entrusting Botswana with the honor of hosting the championship, hailing it as a significant contribution to the expansion and development of the game in the Southern African nation.
He praised the unity and brotherhood that Scrabble fosters among nations, exemplified by the collaboration and support extended.
Acknowledgments were given to the Botswana Scrabble Association, led by President Kemoneilwe Bonno, for their tireless efforts and warm hospitality in organizing the event. Adegbesan also recognized the invaluable guidance of Dr. Jared Omollo and the generosity of Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai, who facilitated the participation of Kenyan players.
The President extended a special mention to the participants from Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Zambia, and Uganda, who made the journey to Gaborone, some even sacrificing the Easter holidays traditionally spent with family to be part of their extended Scrabble family.
While expressing regret for his inability to attend in person due to exhaustion and a brief hospitalization following the African Games, Adegbesan wished each participant a fantastic tournament filled with great games, new friendships, and memorable experiences.
He encouraged upholding the highest standards of sportsmanship and camaraderie, emphasizing that the championship should be a celebration of the shared love for Scrabble.
As the three-day championship from March 29 to March 31 unfolds, anticipation runs high among the elite wordsmiths eager to showcase their skills and forge lasting bonds in the vibrant city of Gaborone.
