Banjul Ministerial Conference: Minister of Youth and Sports Reaffirms Madagascar’s Commitment to Exemplary Sports Governance
Under the auspices of UNESCO Anti-Doping, USADA, WADA, and the African Union (AU), the interregional ministerial conference held in Banjul, Gambia, represents a key step towards ethical and inclusive sports governance in Africa. The theme of this meeting, “Strengthening Sports Governance in Africa: Fostering Interregional Cooperation and Convergence for the Values, Ethics, and Integrity of Sport,” reflects the urgent need for comprehensive reform in the sector. Madagascar, represented by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Marson Moustapha Abdullah, reaffirmed its commitment to defending the interests of Malagasy athletes and promoting the ideals of honest and responsible sport. A firm commitment to exemplary sports governance
For Madagascar, sports governance is a priority under the leadership of His Excellency President Andry Rajoelina. As part of the presidential roadmap, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has implemented ambitious initiatives aimed at ensuring sound and transparent management of the sports sector.
Africa: A Context of Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the challenges related to sports governance on the continent, the Banjul conference highlighted strategic opportunities to consolidate a sports ecosystem based on the principles of integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness. Three priority areas stand out:
1. Strengthening the skills of sports leaders, essential for ethical and effective management.
2. Consolidating institutional and legal structures, ensuring a solid regulatory framework.
3. Establishing effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, essential to eradicating corruption and fraudulent practices.
A Shared Vision for Transforming African Sport
The conference’s work resulted in concrete commitments:
Regional convergence for decisions aligned with international standards, contributing to greater sporting integrity.
Prioritizing investments in sport, recognized as a lever for social, economic, and inclusive development, particularly for the empowerment of youth and women.
By adopting an interregional approach, these resolutions aim to unite the efforts of African nations and build a sports system that embodies values and justice.
Madagascar, a recognized continental leader
Madagascar’s active participation in this high-level meeting illustrates its leadership position in continental debates on sports governance. This contribution is part of a broader vision, where sport becomes both a tool for sustainable development and a vector for national and regional unity.
His Excellency President Andry Rajoelina’s commitment to transparent and fair sport is resonating favorably internationally, reinforcing Madagascar’s image as a key player in sporting progress in Africa.
Together, let us work towards sports governance that lives up to the aspirations of our continent.
Ministre des Sports d’Afrique du Sud
Ministre des sports de Gambi
SEM ADALA BARROW PRÉSIDENT DU GAMBI
