UNICEF in Algeria has named boxer Imane Khelif and footballer Ismaël Bennacer as its new national ambassadors. This designation was made official during a ceremony in Algiers, in the presence of the UNICEF Representative in Algeria, Ms. Katarina Johansson, the UNICEF team, and the media.
Imane Khelif, three-time African champion and vice-world boxing champion, aged 24, and Ismaël Bennacer, African football champion and AC Milan midfielder, 26, have signed up as; goodwill ambassadors for a period of two years (2024-2026). Their role will be to promote children’s rights and support UNICEF initiatives in Algeria, particularly in the areas of health, nutrition, sport, and the inclusion of children with disabilities—and quality education.
Imane Khelif expressed her pride and emotion at becoming a UNICEF ambassador in Algeria, emphasizing her desire to share her story with Algerian children and encourage them to believe in their dreams. For his part, Ismaël Bennacer also expressed his honor to commit alongside UNICEF, recognizing the responsibility and importance of this role for children and young people in Algeria and around the world.
Ms. Katarina Johansson welcomed the arrival of these two new personalities in the UNICEF family, emphasizing the essential role of sporting and cultural personalities in promoting and defending children’s rights. She is convinced that the participation of Imane Khelif and Ismaël Bennacer will be a major asset for UNICEF’s strategic partnership with Algeria and for actions in favor of children and young people.
