Online Reporter
THE Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) and their Athletes Commission will host the largest platform for sports debate on the continent from April 4-7 at the Windhoek International Convention Centre in Namibia.
The event will bring together athlete representatives from National Olympic Committees across Africa to exchange ideas, set goals and propose initiatives.
The 5th Continental Athletes’ Forum will serve as a critical space for athlete development where participants will discuss key issues such as: “Strengthening training and preparation programmes for athletes, improving the living conditions and career prospects of athletes, promoting gender equality and inclusion in sport and optimising support for athletes in their transition to post-sport careers’’.
It will be open to the press, giving media representatives the opportunity to observe the sessions first-hand and to engage closely with athletes, sports leaders and experts to gain valuable insights.
This highly anticipated event is a priority for ANOCA and president, Mustapha Berraf, who has highlighted the fundamental role of African athletes in the global Olympic movement.
“This Forum is a crucial milestone in strengthening the voice of African athletes and ensuring that they are at the heart of the decisions that will shape the future of sport on our continent,” he said.
“We are confident that the recommendations that will emerge from these discussions will contribute to building a fairer and more successful sports ecosystem.”
Berraf has a clear strategy, as outlined in the ANOCA platform.
“To promote sport and Olympism, we must provide athletes with all the necessary tools to reach the elite level of competitive sport. It is therefore essential to take into account their career and post-career management, as well as their socio-professional life, by designing and implementing strategies tailored to their specific needs and expectations,” he said.
ANOCA’s support for athletes also aims to increase the social impact of their achievements. Gaby Ahrens, chairperson of the ANOCA Athletes’ Commission, said the forum would provide a platform for share their concerns and proffer solutions. – insidethegames.com
