Liberia is set to make history in 2026 as it hosts the prestigious African Scrabble Championship for the very first time.
The 16th edition of the continental tournament will be staged in October 2026 at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex Conference Centre in Monrovia, placing Liberia firmly on the map of competitive Scrabble.
The announcement was made by the President of the National Scrabble Association of Liberia (NSAL), Lester Dgian Morris, who described the development as a monumental achievement for the country’s sporting community.
Morris emphasized that Liberia’s selection as host reflects the growing commitment and organizational strength of the association, as well as the increasing popularity of the game nationwide.
“This is a proud moment for us,” Morris said. “Hosting the African Scrabble Championship is not just an honor but a validation of the progress we have made in promoting Scrabble as a competitive and educational sport across Liberia.”
The announcement comes on the heels of a successful national Scrabble competition held in Kakata, Margibi County.
That tournament drew top talents from across the country and saw Joseph Gegeh emerge as national champion.
Gegeh recorded an impressive 22 wins out of 27 games, while consistent performer Malek Sirleaf secured the runner-up position, cementing his reputation as one of Liberia’s top players.
The 2026 event is expected to attract elite players from more than a dozen African countries, all vying for the coveted title of continental champion.
The tournament will not only spotlight talent but also promote cultural exchange, tourism, and intellectual competition in Liberia.
The African Scrabble Championship is organized biennially under the aegis of the Pan African Scrabble Association (PANASA).
The most recent edition—the 15th—was held in Kigali, Rwanda, from October 26 to November 2, 2024.
That tournament was won by Nigeria’s Oluwatimilehin Doko, a rising star in African Scrabble circles and part of Nigeria’s longstanding dominance in the game.
Liberia’s selection as host for the 2026 edition signals a significant shift, as the tournament moves to West Africa after being held in East and Southern Africa in previous years.
The event is expected to bring substantial economic and social benefits to the country, including international exposure, investment in local infrastructure, and educational outreach.
NSAL has pledged to work closely with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Education, and international Scrabble bodies to ensure a world-class event.
Preparations will include the training of officials, player development programs, and a national awareness campaign to boost public interest.
As Liberia gears up for this historic championship, the entire nation looks forward to welcoming Africa’s best wordsmiths in 2026.
