Monrovia -For the first time since its establishment in 1986, the Sports Writers Association of Liberia (SWAL) will participate in a major international engagement under the International Sports Press Association (AIPS).
SWAL President, Mr. Varmah Kamara, left the country early Wednesday to represent the association at the 8th AIPS Africa Congress, scheduled to take place from February 6–9, 2026, in Bijilo, The Gambia.
In a statement released on Wednesday, SWAL described the development as a landmark achievement that places the organization firmly on the continental sports journalism map. The association noted that the congress will enhance SWAL’s international image and provide a rare opportunity for its president to network with leaders of sports writers’ bodies across Africa.Since assuming office, Mr. Kamara has worked to expand and strengthen SWAL’s relationship with AIPS. He has held several meetings with AIPS President, Mr. Gianni Merlo, focused on advancing SWAL’s standing and ensuring its status within the international body is up to date. Additionally, Mr. Kamara held discussions with FIFA’s Africa Regional Director, Mr. Gelson Fernandez, in meetings facilitated by the Liberia Football Association (LFA) late last year.SWAL also expressed gratitude to the President of the Liberia Football Association, Mr. Mustapha I. Raji, for his continuous support toward strengthening the association and helping to build a vibrant and credible institution.The 8th AIPS Africa Congress will be held under the theme “Digital Media, AI, and Ethical Journalism in Africa” at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Bijilo.According to AIPS Africa, the congress will provide a valuable platform for sports journalists across the continent to learn, network, and grow professionally, while also strengthening the future of sports journalism in Africa.High-profile guests expected at the congress include His Excellency Adama Barrow, President of The Gambia; Mr. Gianni Merlo, President of AIPS; Ghana’s Minister of Sports, Hon. Kofi Adams; Sports Ministers from Senegal, Mali, Nigeria, and other African nations, as well as renowned continental sports icons.Over the years, AIPS has played a critical role in protecting the rights of sports journalists, promoting professionalism and ethical standards, building capacity, and creating platforms for learning and networking across the global sports media landscape.The AIPS Africa Congress aims to bring together sports journalists and key stakeholders from across the continent to deliberate, collaborate, and shape the future of African sports journalism.
