A total of 1,100 athletes are expected to compete in 30 events at the Games in Tunisian resort Hammamet between June 23 and 30.

The number of countries taking part comfortably exceeds the 42 who took part in the inaugural African Beach Games in Sal in Cape Verde four years ago.

"We will be there calmly and serenely as we have already broken the first record, with the expected participation of 53 out of the 54 NOCs (National Olympic Committees)," Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) President Mustapha Berraf said.

"The Yasmine Hammamet resort will reflect our meticulous and successful preparation, which ANOCA is proud of."

Among those competing for the first time will be South Africa, who have announced a squad of 35 athletes.

"We are thrilled to send our team to the African Beach Games for the first time, as it provides a significant platform for the development and experience of our continent’s youth in the promotion of beach events," Barry Hendricks, President of the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee, said.

"In addition to the competitive aspect, the African Beach Games will expose our athletes to the cultural and artistic elements of the event, fostering connections with athletes from the African region."

The Opening Ceremony in Hammamet, one of the primary tourist destinations in Tunisia, is due to coincide with Olympic Day, which commemorates the founding of the International Olympic Committee on that day in 1894.

The African Beach Games are also qualifiers for several events at the World Beach Games, due to take place in Bali between August 5 and 12.

As part of preparations, Yasmine Hammamet beach has been cleaned up ready for the event.

"Hammamet promises to be a resounding success," Berraf said.