Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, has been elected Vice President of Group V(a) of the UNESCO Bureau of the Convention Against Doping in Sport.
This marks a major milestone in the country’s growing influence in global anti-doping efforts.
This is according to a press statement issued by First Secretary Press at the Zambian Embassy in Paris ,France Naomi Mweemba.
Ms Mweemba disclosed that the election took place during the 10th Session of the Conference of Parties (COP10) to the UNESCO Convention against Doping in Sport, currently underway at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris from October 20 to 23.
She said Mr Nkandu, who arrived in Paris on Tuesday, was welcomed by Ministry of Youth Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary, Kangwa Chileshe, and Zambia’s Ambassador to France, Judith Mulenga.
‘’His election is seen as recognition of Zambia’s strong record in advancing anti-doping initiatives, both regionally and globally,’’ said Ms Mweemba.
She added that the UNESCO Bureau plays a central role in overseeing the implementation of the Convention and guiding international strategies to combat doping in sport.
Ms Mweemba explained that Mr Nkandu’s election follows Zambia’s sustained leadership in the sector since 2018, when the country first joined the Approval Committee for the Fund for the Elimination of Doping in Sport.
‘’Zambia’s influence has grown steadily, with Ministry of Youth Sport and Arts Permanent Secretary Kangwa Chileshe previously chairing the Open-Ended Working Group on the Convention Against Doping in Sport, which recently issued major reform recommendations as the Convention marks its 20th anniversary.
“This election aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision to position Zambia prominently on the international stage by pursuing leadership roles with global organisations, thereby enhancing the country’s diplomatic presence and influence,” said Ms Mweemba.
She further said other Vice Presidents elected to the Bureau include representatives from Turkey, India, and Saudi Arabia adding that Azerbaijan was elected Chairperson of COP10.
The COP10 conference has drawn delegates from UNESCO member states, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), the European Commission, and the African Union Sport Council.
The event serves as a key forum for setting international anti-doping policy and strengthening global cooperation in clean sport.
Benefits to us Zambians?