The 21st edition of the Africa Elite Boxing Championships opened with a vibrant display at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa, DR Congo, on October 19, 2024. The packed stadium was filled with an enthusiastic crowd cheering and dancing, adding energy to the boxers’ commendable performances.

While the day saw many triumphs, it also brought heartbreak for some. Moroccan newcomer Amine Maarouf was overcome with emotion after losing to Mozambique’s Manuel Banguine. His tearful reaction, however, reflected his deep passion for the sport. Similarly, Senegal’s Diarga Balde struggled to come to terms with his defeat against DR Congo’s Apanu Anyosu, leaving him in a pensive state after the fight.

On the positive side, several fighters advanced, including Namibia’s Tryagain Ndevelo, DR Congo’s Malenga Zengala, and South Africa’s John Paul Masamba, who knocked out Gabon’s Sebastien Allela. With the competition heating up, Masamba is already preparing for a tough quarter-final against Zambia’s Emmanuel Katema.

Among the notable victors were Morocco’s Hamza Essaadi, Cameroon’s Martial Wouang, and DR Congo’s Zola Tulembekwa, who secured wins to keep their medal hopes alive.