The African Spelling Bee Championships 2023 (ASB23) recently came to a thrilling conclusion in Kampala, Uganda, showcasing the linguistic prowess and intellectual acumen of participants from across the continent. The event, which brought together 11 countries, has left an indelible mark as a celebration of linguistic excellence and cultural exchange.

Speaking on behalf of the host country, Mr Aaron Kirunda, Director of Uganda’s Spelling Bee said: “It is always such a heartwarming experience hosting the future of Africa. The African Spelling Bee brings together the brightest children on the continent and interacting with them gives me so much hope for this continent.”

In the Senior Category, the competition was fierce, with spellers demonstrating extraordinary command over their lexicons.

The final standings for the ASB23 Senior Category are as follows:

• 1st – Praises Esere Minabowa (Nigeria)
• 2nd – David Busha (Ethiopia)
• 3rd – Tashinga Chereni (Zimbabwe)

These exceptional spellers not only represented their nations with pride but also showcased the diversity and richness of the African linguistic landscape.

In the Junior Category, young wordsmiths captivated the audience with their impressive spelling abilities. The Junior Category winners for ASB23 are:

• Joint 1st – Lesedi Seemane (South Africa) & Agaba Austin Jordan (Uganda)
• 3rd – Claudia Jean Madhombiro (Zimbabwe)

The shared victory in the Junior Category emphasises the close competition and camaraderie that unfolded on the ASB23 stage, fostering connections among the next generation of African spellers.

The Team Category was equally thrilling, with national teams competing fiercely for top honours. The Team Category results are as follows:

• 1st Place – Uganda
• Joint 2nd Place – South Africa & Nigeria

The triumphant Ugandan team, along with the second-place finishers from South Africa and Nigeria, showcased the collaborative spirit of the African Spelling Bee Championships, reflecting the unity and shared commitment to academic excellence.

The ASB23 not only celebrated linguistic achievement but also served as a platform for cultural exchange and friendship among participants. The event highlighted the importance of promoting education and literacy across the African continent.

Chairman of the African Spelling Bee Executive Committee, Mr Lewis Mbaula Chisale, concluded the event by pointing out that, “The exposure and the memories that the children from different African countries create will positively change their lives and motivate millions more children across the continent to work hard and be part of this vocabulary exhibition.”

The organising committee expresses its gratitude to the participants, sponsors, and the host city of Kampala for making ASB23 a resounding success. As the curtains close on this edition of the African Spelling Bee Championships, the organisers look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to inspire a new generation of wordsmiths across the continent.

The 7th edition of the African Spelling Bee will be hosted by Abuja, Nigeria in December 2024.

The African Spelling Bee was founded in 2016 by Spelling Bee organisations from Botswana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Nigeria, South Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe and has now grown to include countries from across the continent.

The African Spelling Bee’s visions is an Africa where the Children are Inspired, Literate, Confident and Connected.