The 2025 Africa Aquatics Zone 2 Junior, Senior, and Masters Swimming Championships got off to a vibrant start at the Borteyman Sports Complex in Accra with a colourful opening ceremony on Friday, October 3.

Sixteen countries paraded their national flags amid a lively display of Ghanaian cultural dance to mark the beginning of the continental championship.

President of the Ghana Swimming Association, Delphina Quaye, warmly welcomed participating nations to Ghana, describing the country as “the land of peace and hospitality.”

“It is with immense pride and gratitude that I stand before you today to welcome you to the Africa Zone 2 Swimming Championships in Accra, Ghana, the land of peace and hospitality,” she said.

President of Africa Aquatics, Dr. Mohammed Diop, also commended Ghana’s growing influence in aquatic sports across the continent.

“It is no exaggeration to say that Ghana has become the Mecca of African Swimming. May these championships reflect our shared ambition and serve as a crucible for future legends,” he stated.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Professor Francis Dodoo, Presidential Advisor for the National Anti-Corruption Programme and representative of the Chief of Staff; Former Sports Minister Elvis Afriyie Ankrah; Ghana Olympic Committee President, Mr. Richard Akpokavie; Chief Director at the Ministry for Sports and Recreation, Mrs. Wilhelmina Asamoah; and Local Organizing Committee Chairman, Dr. Frederick Boamah.

This year’s edition marks the second consecutive time Ghana is hosting the championships at the Borteyman Sports Complex.

The competition also serves as an official qualifying event for the World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m), to be held in Beijing in 2026.

The three-day championship continues through October 5, featuring top swimmers from across the sub-region competing for glory and qualification spots.

Photos from day one action below.