Algeria and South Africa Reign Supreme at 2026 All Africa Senior Badminton Championships

Gaborone, Botswana – The 2026 All Africa Senior Badminton Championships concluded on February 15th, with Algeria and South Africa successfully defending their titles in the Men’s and Women’s Team Events, respectively. The championships, held at the Royal Aria Sports Arena, saw a record participation of 17 countries.

Team Competition Secures Cup Qualification

The championships served as a crucial qualifying event for the Thomas & Uber Cup Finals, scheduled to grab place in Horsens, Denmark, from April 24th to May 3rd, 2026. The winning men’s and women’s teams from the All Africa Senior Championships have earned direct qualification to represent Africa at the prestigious finals.

Defending Champions Prevail

Algeria entered the 2026 edition as the defending champions on the men’s side and they lived up to expectations. In the 2024 edition, they defeated Nigeria in a thrilling 3–2 final. Similarly, South Africa returned as defending champions in the women’s competition, having previously overcome Uganda with a 3–2 victory.

Doubles Champions Crowned

Koceila Mammeri and Youcef Sabri Medel of Algeria claimed the men’s doubles title, defeating the Mulenga brothers in a spirited challenge. This victory continues the Algerian pair’s dominant run in African badminton.

Record Participation and Growing Prominence

This year’s championships marked the largest assembly in the history of the Badminton Confederation of Africa, bringing together over 170 elite players from more than fourteen countries, including Algeria, Nigeria, Mauritius, Seychelles, Cameroon, Ghana, South Africa, and Madagascar. This marks the largest assembly in the history of the Badminton Confederation of Africa, according to event organizers.

Botswana’s Hosting Success

Botswana’s hosting of the event demonstrates its growing reputation as a key destination for major continental sporting events. The event is expected to have positive economic impacts on tourism, local businesses, and job creation.

“Organizing this prestigious championship reflects the strong support from the government, sponsors, and fans.”

Mr Modisaotsile Badubi, Botswana Badminton President

FAQ

• When and where were the 2026 All Africa Senior Badminton Championships held? They were held in Gaborone, Botswana, from February 9th to 15th, 2026.
• What is at stake in the Team Events? Qualification for the Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026 in Denmark.
• Who were the defending champions? Algeria (Men’s Team) and South Africa (Women’s Team).

The 2026 All Africa Senior Badminton Championships showcased the rising prominence of badminton in Africa and provided a platform for athletes to compete at the highest level. The success of the event in Gaborone underscores Botswana’s commitment to developing the sport and hosting world-class competitions.