CAN 2024 volunteers in Abidjan: a strong commitment to the organization of the tournament
Abidjan, January 4 – This January 4, at the Palais de la Culture in Abidjan, thousands of young people responded to the call to register as volunteers during the men’s African Cup of Nations (CAN 2024). ) which will take place in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11. In an atmosphere of hustle and bustle and excitement, these volunteers demonstrated a strong commitment to the organization of this major sporting event.
Nearly 20,000 volunteers have been selected to contribute to the organization of CAN 2024. While the 10,000 official volunteers will mainly be present in the stadiums, the volunteers will have more varied roles, notably as tourist guides. and cultural animators in CAN villages.
Among the young people present, we find Jonas, 24, and Jean-Michel, 26, both scouts, who obtained their volunteer contract and their official t-shirt from the CAN Organizing Committee. Jonas expresses his feeling of obligation to help organize the CAN in his country: “I am obliged to help contribute to the organization of the CAN in my country.” Jean-Eudes, a recent graduate, sees this experience as an opportunity to get involved in an activity that could bring him more: “We can’t sit idly by. I could join an activity that could earn me a bit more”.
It is important to emphasize that these volunteers are not just volunteers. In fact, they will receive remuneration in the form of expenses, in the amount of 60,000 CFA francs, or approximately 91 euros. This financial compensation demonstrates recognition of their commitment and their contribution to the success of the competition.
However, nine days before the start of the competition, the volunteers do not yet know their precise assignment. The activities which will be entrusted to them, such as the animation, beautification or sanitation of fan spaces and CAN villages, remain to be defined. Some of them say they have not received information on this subject, but say they are ready for anything. A training day is planned for all volunteers on January 8, in order to best prepare them for their missions.
Despite this uncertainty, Prime Minister Robert Beugré wants to be reassuring and underlines the importance of volunteers in providing a quality welcome to all visitors to the CAN: “Their role is fundamental. We are very ready”. This declaration also testifies to the importance given to the organization and success of this sporting event for Côte d’Ivoire.
By committing as volunteers for CAN 2024, these young people demonstrate their attachment to sport and their desire to contribute to the promotion of their country. Their strong commitment and enthusiasm reflect a dynamic youth ready to take on the challenges to make this African Football Cup of Nations a resounding success.