Your Weekly Dose of FIBA Africa Zone 7 News : Nioumadzaha unveils a new basketball court, Malagasy stars head to Reunion, three referees earn FIBA accreditation, a general takes Madagascar’s premiership, Mauritius Super League returns, and Roche-Bois Warriors bow out of the Road to BAL.
Last Updated on
October 12, 2025
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Nioumadzaha Bambao celebrated a milestone on Monday, unveiling its new basketball court thanks to collaboration between the France-based Comoros community and the French Embassy in the Comoros. Ambassador Étienne Chapon and local officials joined the ribbon-cutting ceremony, greeted by cheers.
Recalling the long journey to translate the idea into reality, Chayehoi Benali, chairman of the Jeunes Volontaires de Nioumadzaha Bambao, expressed his feelings.
“This is a dream come true,” he said.
Embassy funding ensured the installation of fencing and lighting, creating a safe, welcoming space for youth aged 15 to 30 to play, gather, and dream big. More than a sports venue, the court embodies community spirit. The Youth Commission intentionally placed young people at the center, highlighting the potential for future stars, perhaps even representing the Comoros at the 2027 Indian Ocean Island Games.
Laughter and excitement punctuated the day: Ambassador Chapon attempted a playful demonstration on the court to applause, later sharing a traditional meal with village women while seated on the floor—a simple yet memorable gesture of warmth and togetherness.
Muriel Hajanirina and Christiane Jaofera are turning a page in their careers by joining La Tamponnaise Basket for one season. The two longtime pillars of MB2ALL leave the club where they built their legacy, having left an indelible mark on Malagasy women’s basketball.
Multiple N1A championship winners, they led their team to ten consecutive finals, showcasing consistency and influence. Their experience and leadership have elevated the Antananarivo club into a respected institution, inspiring a new generation of players to follow in their footsteps.
By signing with La Tamponnaise, the reigning Reunion Island champions, the two internationals embrace a challenge commensurate with their careers. Their arrival continues a historical connection, as other Malagasy players, including Carole Mangalaza and Ange Rasoambolonoro, have previously represented the club.
Muriel and Christiane joined their new teammates on October 8, reinforcing growing basketball ties between Madagascar and Reunion Island, two territories united by talent and passion.
Led by experts Vitalis Gode (Kenya) and Samir Abaakil (Morocco), the program hosted 21 referees from 12 countries, including Algeria, Cameroon, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Its goal: strengthen officiating standards and prepare a new generation for FIBA competitions.
With three of its four representatives accredited, Madagascar celebrates a significant step forward in basketball officiating, highlighting the federation’s commitment to developing its referees alongside its teams.
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A career officer, General Zafisambo, embodies both military discipline and sporting engagement. A former student of the 8th Special Platoon at the Antsirabe Military Academy, he also completed advanced training in France, reinforcing his reputation for rigour.
He has six months to implement reforms and deliver tangible results. Known as a hands-on organiser with a sports background, he inspires hope for more effective governance, highlighting the growing influence of sports in Malagasy politics.
To address these issues, the Mauritius Basketball Federation sought support from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and secured approval from the Beau-Bassin/Rose-Hill municipal council to relocate matches to Quorum Gymnasium. This solution allows the competition to restart smoothly.
Saturday’s action features a top clash between unbeaten leaders Roche-Bois Warriors and AS Vacoas-Phoenix, who are defending their sixth spot. Sunday sees Forest Side face F-17 Fighters in a crucial relegation battle, Highlands Young Cadets take on the Hammers, and Mahebourg Flippers meet CSSC in a promising matchup.
Scheduled for October 22-26 in Lusaka, Zambia, the tournament will feature teams from Zones 6 and 7, including Matero Magic (Zambia), Ferroviario da Beira (Mozambique), Bravehearts BC (Malawi), Basket Hounds (Zimbabwe), and Djabal Basket Iconi (Comoros). The Warriors, participants in 2021, had hoped to compete again, but travel costs made it impossible.
“We unfortunately have to withdraw. The airfare to Zambia is too high,” explained coach Jérôme Tonta.
He noted that air tickets alone cost more than Rs 50,000 per person, excluding lodging, meals, and registration fees. Despite efforts, the club could not secure the necessary funds, highlighting the ongoing challenges for Mauritian clubs on the continental stage without stronger structural support.
[Photography / Imagery Courtesy of La Gazette des Comores, Malagasy Basket-Ball Federation, Tamponnaise Basketball, Le Mauricien, FIBA]
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