The prestigious East, Central, and Southern Africa Scrabble Championship (ECASA) 2024 is underway in the vibrant city of Gaborone, Botswana, with 40 elite players from five countries vying for the coveted titles and a lucrative prize purse of $2,515.
The three-day tournament, which kicked off on March 29 and runs until March 31, has attracted the region’s top Scrabble talent from Botswana, Kenya, South Africa, Zambia, and Uganda.
It comes just few days after scrabble marked its historic debut at the 13th African Games held in Accra.
In a heartfelt welcome address, Adekoyejo Adegbesan, President of the Pan African Scrabble Association, commended the participating countries taking part in the three-day championship from March 29 to March 31st.
“On behalf of the Botswana Scrabble Association BOSCRA, it gives me immense pleasure to welcome each of you to the vibrant city of Gaborone for the East, Central, and Southern Africa Scrabble Championship (ECASA) 2024,” he said.
“Your presence here, representing your countries with such pride and dedication, is a testament to the unwavering spirit and love for Scrabble within our community.”
The Ave Maria Hotel and Conferences in Gabrone is hosting the competition as participants have braved significant costs and challenges to represent their nations with immense pride.
Adegbesan acknowledged their sacrifices, including those who traveled during the Easter holidays, traditionally reserved for family gatherings.
“It is your commitment and passion that serve as the engine room propelling the growth and success of Scrabble in our region,” Adegbesan stated, recognizing the vital role the participants play in propelling the growth and success of Scrabble in the region.
“You are not just players; you are the heartbeat of our community,”
The decision to host ECASA 2024 in Botswana was hailed as a significant contribution to the expansion and development of the game in the Southern African country.
Adegbesan extended his gratitude to the presidents of the ECASA countries for entrusting Botswana with this honor, highlighting the spirit of unity and brotherhood that Scrabble fosters among nations.
A special thanks to all the Presidents of the ECASA countries for entrusting Botswana with the honor of hosting this prestigious event.
“Your decision is a significant contribution to the expansion and development of Scrabble in this beautiful Southern African country.
“Your collaboration and support exemplify the unity and brotherhood that Scrabble fosters among us.”
He has also showered praises on the Botswana Scrabble Association, led by President Kemoneilwe Bonno, for their tireless efforts and warm hospitality in organizing the championship, while acknowledging the invaluable guidance and support of Dr. Jared Omollo and the generosity of Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai, who facilitated the participation of Kenyan players.
“I would also like to acknowledge the tireless efforts and warm hospitality of the Botswana Scrabble Association’s executive committee members, led by President Kemoneilwe Bonno, he said.
“Your dedication and hard work in making this championship a reality are truly commendable.
“A special mention must go to His Excellency, Gov. Jeremiah Lomorukai, for his continued support of some of the Kenyan players, ensuring their participation in this championship.
“Your generosity and commitment to the development of Scrabble are deeply appreciated.”
With a lucrative prize pool of $1215 for the gold medalist, $750 for silver, and $550 for bronze, the competition promises to be fierce. Notably, placements from 4th to 10th will also earn cash rewards in order of their final standings.
While expressing regret for his inability to attend in person due to a brief hospitalization following the African Games, Adegbesan has encouraged participants to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
He emphasized that the championship should not only be a competition but a celebration of the shared love for Scrabble.
