Launch of the Carlos Takam Academy:
A Historic Milestone for African Sport
During the conference organized by the UNF (United Nations Federation) at the Palais des Nations in Geneva to mark the 10th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of the Rights of Humanity, Mr. Christophe Giovannetti, President of the UNF and Secretary-General of the Declaration, announced the creation of the Carlos Takam Academy — a historic step forward for African sport.
This initiative, led by the Carlos Takam Foundation, was officially launched in Kigali on Saturday, September 27, 2025, in the presence of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco.
A Historic Moment for African and Global Sport
From 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., the Rwandan capital hosted an exceptional program combining inspiring speeches, boxing demonstrations, traditional dances, the unveiling of a unique world championship belt, and the exclusive presentation of the Academy project and its architectural plans.
In an atmosphere both intimate and prestigious, high-ranking personalities, international partners, and friends of the Foundation gathered to mark this historic milestone.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the sparring session by Carlos Takam, former world champion and founder of the Foundation — a deeply emotional performance that particularly moved Prince Albert II, a longtime friend of the athlete.
A Pan-African Vision: A “Champion Factory Made in Africa”
The Carlos Takam Academy is set to become a flagship institution for the training, mentoring, and personal development of young African sports talents. First location: Kigali, Rwanda
Vision: Expansion across the African continent
Goal: To provide African athletes with world-class facilities to unlock their full potential
More than just a training center, the Academy aims to be a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem, integrating sports facilities, leisure spaces, dining areas, esports, offices, and modern infrastructure.
It also seeks to provide financial and social support to young athletes across Africa.
Prestigious Support and International Recognition
The ceremony was honored by the exceptional presence of the World Boxing Council (WBC), which traveled from Mexico for the occasion. Two Heads of State were presented with honorary belts, as a symbol of friendship and recognition:
- S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco
- E. Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda
On stage, Prince Albert II — a former Olympian — received a customized belt featuring the Monégasque flag and his portrait, surrounded by WBC representatives and members of the Foundation. The following day, Carlos Takam and Victor Silva, WBC Director, were received by President Paul Kagame for a private audience during which they presented him with a personalized, highly symbolic belt designed especially for His Excellency.
Inspiring Figures United Around a Shared Vision
Many prominent figures from the worlds of sport, culture, and business attended the event, including:
David Lappartient, President of the UCI
Hon. Rwego Ngarambe, Minister of State, Rwanda Ministry of Sports
Bashi Ntwari, President of the Rwandan Boxing Federation
Macoumba Touré Sarr, two-time African Para-Cycling Champion
Tegla Loroupe, marathon legend
Jean-Philippe Torres, President Africa, TotalEnergies
Khadja Nin, singer and activist
Jean-François Camilleri, former President of Walt Disney France
A Committed Team and a Clear Roadmap
To bring this vision to life, Carlos Takam relies on a strong and dedicated team:
- Scorpio Ciftci, Vice President
- Léon Sala, Vice President
Alongside influential members of the Foundation’s board, including Mauricio Sulaimán and Princess Sophia Wolkonsky.
The official inauguration of the Academy is scheduled for March 2026 in Kigali, with the ambition of becoming a model of success, excellence, and inspiration for the entire African continent.
A Humanitarian Initiative Supported by the UNF
The UNF has launched a humanitarian support program for the Academy, which the public can join via the following link: https://www.unionnationsfederation.org/ All funds raised will be entirely donated to the Carlos Takam Academy.
“Africa is in the DNA of the UNF, and Carlos Takam’s initiative is a dream we can turn into reality. Let us come together behind this project to help athletes born in Africa become champions in Africa,” declared Christophe Giovannetti, President of the UNF.
Press Contact:
Christophe Giovannetti
President of the UNF [email protected]
