Published on : 19/07/2021 – 12:59
Red Star Ndongo Club player, the one nicknamed “Afrika”, who won the African Club Cup in the 1970s, died in the most complete destitution, causing many reactions in Bangui. After ending his career, it was difficult for him to find a job. In recent years, he has lived on the solidarity of those around him. Sick, he had launched appeals to help him pay for his care.
On social networks, photos and calls for donations to help Jacques Serefio had multiplied. The former basketball star died this weekend despite the help he received.
« I am very sad, because Mr. Serefio, indeed, is a great Central African basketball player, testifies Aimé-Serge Singa-Bengba, the president of the basketball federation in the Central African Republic. His departure calls out to us, he was retired and his living conditions were a little difficult. When we learned at the level of the federation that he was ill, we approached the government, which did everything to try to treat him. »
Today, former basketball players and former professional athletes in general do not benefit from a pension system. The post-sports career is a real problem, recognizes Aimé-Serge Singa-Bengba.
« The reconversion in our country is not easy, but it does not only concern the old ones. Even young people who take up sport, who have no training and are forced – because they have been injured, or for any other reason – to give up, often some, those who have not been trained , find themselves in difficulty. »
The president of the basketball federation plans to organize his States General within a few months. The question of a solidarity fund and a pension scheme will be on the agenda.
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