Gabon on Friday revealed the mascot to be used for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
A black panther called Samba is the official mascot. The mascot is seen sporting the Gabonese national colours of blue and yellow. Its name means ‘hello’ and ‘welcome’ in local Bantu language.
The unveiling was done at the Stade de Franceville before the clash between the host and Sierra Leone in the presence of President of the country, Omar Bongo, FIFA President, Gianni Infantino and CAF President, Issah Hayatou.
The black panther is a national symbol of Gabon and demonstrates the Central African nation’s long term commitment to environmental protection which includes creating a sanctuary for some of the world’s most fragile species.
“I am thrilled today to see the Black Panthers play in this packed stadium where Gabonese from all walks of life are gathered to share their common passion for the game,” an elated Bongo said.
He added: “Football, like no other sport, creates a sense of unity, equality and inclusion.
“All of these are at the heart of my vision for a changing Gabon. It is a pleasure to welcome the new President of FIFA, on his first trip to Africa, to see for himself the great welcome our country will give all participants and visitors to next year’s tournament.
Infantino, who is on a three-leg visit to South Sudan, Ethiopia and Djibouti, arrived in Gabon on Friday in time for the event.
Gabon will be hosting the continental tournament for the second time, having previously co-hosted with Equatorial Guinea in 2012.
The Central African country is currently constructing two stadiums in Port-Gentil and the northern town of Oyem for January’s tournament, with the capacity of 20,000 and 20,500 respectively.
Gabon will use four venues – Libreville, Franceville, Port Gentil and Oyem – for the 16- team tournament, which will take place from January 14 to February 5.
