PRESIDENT WITOLD BAŃKA,
VICE PRESIDENT YANG YANG,
HONOURABLE MINISTERS,
DISTINGUISHED DELEGATES,
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN.

I start by thanking the Government and people of the Republic of South Korea for their gracious hospitality and impeccable organisation of this World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) World Conference.

Though my professional journey has been shaped largely by diplomacy and governance, the power of sport and the hope it inspires across our continent, has always been close to my heart. Today, as Commissioner responsible for Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, including sport, within the African Union, I am reminded that clean sport is not merely a technical agenda. It is a moral commitment, a promise we make to our athletes and an investment in the dignity, well-being and unity of our people.

As Africa’s representative on the WADA Executive Committee, I carry with me the voices, aspirations and challenges of a continent of over one billion people, especially its young athletes, whose dreams transcend borders and whose integrity must be protected at all costs.

Distinguished Delegates,

The revision of the World Anti-Doping Code is a monumental task. No instrument of this magnitude can ever be perfect. But what matters is the spirit in which it is crafted. Here
in Busan, that spirit has been one of inclusivity, transparency and genuine partnership. On behalf of the African Union, I commend WADA’s leadership, its dedicated teams and the countless experts and stakeholders who contributed to this revised 2027 Code.

The outcome reflects forward-thinking responsibility: stronger protection of athletes’ rights, clearer guidance on vulnerable groups, enhanced cooperation with law enforcement and proactive anticipation of scientific and technological advances. This is the kind of global leadership the world needs, leadership that protects fairness, strengthens trust and inspires future generations.

Africa stands firmly behind this vision. We recognise that harmonisation is essential for a credible global system and we commit to supporting our Member States and regions as they integrate the revised Code into national legislation and practice. We will walk this journey together, united, determined and focused.

It is in this spirit that I am delighted to announce the First African Anti-Doping Symposium, to be hosted by the Arab Republic of Egypt in April 2026. This will be a moment for Africa to deepen its partnership with WADA, reinforce collective commitments and ensure that our diverse realities are meaningfully reflected in global implementation.

Ladies and Gentlemen,
The challenges ahead are real, but so is our resolve. Africa will rise to the occasion. We will safeguard the integrity of sport, protect the dreams of our young people and strengthen the global movement for clean, fair and ethical competition.

To WADA’s leadership, I encourage you to remain steadfast. Your work changes lives and shapes the future of world sport. Know that Africa stands with you, as a partner, an advocate and a committed member of this global family.

Africa proudly supports the 2027 Code and International Standards. We stand united in our belief that every athlete, everywhere, deserves the opportunity to compete honourably, to triumph with integrity and to inspire generations to come.

I thank you.