Hiking - Marie Laure Essan Lydie: "We made an impression at the congress"

Back from France, where she attended the congress of the French Hiking Federation, Marie Laure Esssan takes stock of a gathering that, all things considered, proved beneficial for her organisation. The president of the African Hiking Confederation (CARP) looks to the future with far greater optimism.

You were in France to attend the congress of the French Hiking Federation. Your organisation is expanding its reach more and more…

CARP was invited to take part in the FFRP congress, held from 29 March to 4 April 2023 in Hyères, in the Var region of France. According to president Brigitte Soulary, the invitation stemmed from the French Federation's plan to build ties with friendly organisations and bodies from all countries that share the same ambitions. This global vision of multilateral relations and shared experience explains the presence at the congress of an international delegation comprising France, Quebec and Africa.

In concrete terms, what lessons did you take away?

The delegation took part in workshops on various themes, as well as hiking activities and excursions to discover the Var region. In the plenary session, we gave a brief presentation of the Ivorian and Senegalese federations before summarising what Africa has to offer under the theme "tourism and hiking, a winning duo". I can assure you that we made an impression at this congress with our plan and our objectives.

How do you intend to turn that slogan into reality?

The FFRP's backing and support were requested so that the collaboration that has been opened up can continue. The steering committee and all the congress delegates greatly appreciated that presentation on Africa as a destination well suited to the growth of hiking. As a result, a memorandum was signed between Europe, France, Quebec and Africa on the creation of an international working platform.

Interview by Kader G