Ethiopia launches Niguse Roba Foundation to empower youth

Ethiopia has played a trailblazing role in Africa across various sports, particularly in athletics. The country has produced numerous professional athletes who have won medals and made history, representing not only Ethiopia but the African continent as a whole. Honoring current and former athletes helps inspire and cultivate a more vibrant generation in the future.

Recently, the country established a foundation named after its legendary figure, NiguseRoba. The inauguration of the Athlete and Coach NiguseRoba Foundation, founded by his wife LiyuworkMengesha with the support of the Former Athletes’ Association, marks a significant milestone in community engagement. The foundation aims to empower youth through sports, education, and health initiatives.

During the inauguration ceremony, Member of the House of People’s Representatives Mohammed Kophe stated that Coach NiguseRoba was a long-time coach with the Ethiopian Athletics Federation, shaping the careers of many great athletes. Niguse was also among the athletes who represented Ethiopia for the first time at the Melbourne Olympics.

Ethiopian athletes coached by Niguse have won numerous medals for their country. He also trained athletes from other African nations, helping them represent the continent in international athletics tournaments. Niguse coached prominent African athletes who went on to achieve success in international competitions held in the United States, Australia, and Germany. He also served as a member of the Executive Committee of the African Amateur Athletics Federation. In recognition of his long-term contributions, he received several awards, including the Blue Nile Award from the Ethiopian government.

Kophe further emphasized that Niguse was one of the pioneers who laid the foundation for Ethiopia’s international recognition in athletics.

During the event, several former athletes shared their experiences and underscored the importance of giving back to the community. The foundation will focus on providing resources and training for young athletes, promoting healthy lifestyles, and nurturing talent development.

Community leaders and sports enthusiasts attended the ceremony, reaffirming their collective commitment to empowering the next generation through sports and education. This initiative is expected to have a lasting, positive impact on the country—especially its youth.

BY NAOL GIRMA

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 20 APRIL 2025

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