Windhoek Hosts 2025 Continental Athletes’ Forum to Advance African Sports Development. The 2025 Continental Athletes’ Forum officially commenced in Windhoek, marking a significant gathering of African sports leaders and athletes to shape the future of sports across the continent.
Organised by the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA), the two-day forum brings together representatives from National Olympic Committees across Africa to engage in discussions on athlete rights, representation, and sustainable development in sport.
The event was officially opened by Hon. Sanet Steenkamp, Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, who underscored the critical role of athletes in shaping sports policy. In her remarks, Hon. Steenkamp emphasised the importance of clean sport, athlete welfare, and meaningful representation, reiterating the Namibian government’s commitment to sports development as a national priority.
The opening ceremony also featured notable contributions from key international and continental figures, including Mr. João Manuel Costa Alegre, Vice President of ANOCA, Ms. Emma Terho, Chair of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Athletes’ Commission, and IOC member Dr. Kirsty Coventry. Namibia’s own Dr. Ndeulipula Hamutumwa, President of the Namibia National Olympic Committee, welcomed the delegates and praised Namibia for being selected as host.
The forum provides a platform to exchange ideas on improving governance in sports, anti-doping efforts, athlete education, and the implementation of Olympic values across Africa.