The national youth sports training and competition, organized by the Ministry of Culture and Sports in Adama, Oromia region, has concluded successfully. Running from Katit 2 to Katit 8, 2018 E.C., the event featured competitions in Olympic and Paralympic sports across various regions. Sports Development Minister Deta Mekiyu Muhammad highlighted the importance of youth athlete training in building a united and victorious nation.
Held in Adama, the event targeted young athletes aged 13 to 15 from regions including Addis Ababa, Benishangul Gumuz, and Gambella, with age groups verified from 1 to 3. Organized by the Ministry of Culture and Sports with facilitation from the Oromia regional administration, it aimed to foster youth athletic development to enhance Ethiopia's prestige and promote national unity.
In Olympic sports, Amhara region took first place, followed by Oromia in second and Addis Ababa city in third. For Paralympic sports, Oromia secured first, Addis Ababa second, and Amhara third. In selecting athletes for the national team, Southern Ethiopia region and Addis Ababa administration led by nominating 26 athletes, while Gambella region nominated 24 to claim third position.
"The development of youth athletes is crucial to creating a united and winning nation in sports," stated Sports Development Minister Deta Mekiyu Muhammad. She added that Ethiopia is striving to replicate its achievements in other sectors through sports. The competition has strengthened inter-regional ties and contributed to the economic boost of the host city Adama. The Oromia Youth and Sports Bureau expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their high-level involvement in ensuring the event's success.
