Youth development will be my agenda - ANOCA candidate

Accra, June 15, GNA - General Zoumaro Gnofame, one of the candidates vying for the presidency of the Association of National Olympic Committee of Africa (ANOCA), has said that youth development will be his number one agenda if given the mandate to head the Association. He said he would create the enabling environment for the youth in Africa to develop their sporting talent on the continent rather than for them to travel outside when given the nod.

General Gnofame 61, the current First Vice President of ANOCA said the calibre of sporting youth in Africa demands that all the necessary attention accorded them to ensure their successful development. "This is the surest way to curb the exodus of our sports men and women and keep them in Africa to help develop the continent". General Gnofame said when he addressed a press conference on Wednesday in Accra. The Vice President said he would be able to achieve this laudable idea by putting his experience and services at the disposal of the Association as well as seeking sponsorship from the corporate bodies across the globe to carry out his objectives.

Touching on other areas, the Togolese, who is also the current Minister of Environment and Forestry Resources, said he would provide the association with an efficient and sound management, which he identified as the major problem confronting it.

"Though Africa has good managers capable of managing the affairs of the Association, we have been lacking this important ingredient in ANOCA and I'm the best to offer this". General Gnofame said.

He said his term of office would provide the association with a very good, honest and responsible management that will change the image of the continent outside and give it a positive outlook.

When quizzed about his role in the former administration, General Gnofame said, "I'm presenting my self as an independent person with independent ideas to move the association forward".

He called on the delegates attending the meeting to give him the mandate in order to implement his policies, which will ensure the general development of sports on the entire continent.

General Gnofame has also served in other areas such as the Vice President of the Togolese National Olympic Committee and President of the Togolese Football Federation from 1984 - 88.

He was also on the Permanent Commission for statutes and rules of the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) and has been a member of FIFA recourse committee for four years.