Namibia is once again taking center stage in continental sport matters, as Windhoek plays host to the 5th Africa Athletes Forum.

The event, which brings together athletes' representatives from across the continent, is marked by high-level international participation and critical discussions shaping the future of African sport.

Namibia, through the Namibian National Olympic Committee (NNOC) and its Athletes Commission, is proudly hosting the 5th Africa Athletes Forum in Windhoek.

All 54 African countries are represented, with an average of two delegates per nation attending.

The event is marked by the prestigious presence of newly elected International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry, who made history as the first woman and the first African to assume the position.

Also in attendance are Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) President Mustapha Berraf and IOC Athletes Commission Chair, Emma Terho.

Namibia's Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture, Sanet Steenkamp, delivered the keynote address at the official opening ceremony.

In his welcoming remarks, NNOC President Dr. Ndeulipula Hamutumwa urged athletes to take full advantage of the two-day forum and to learn from the diverse topics and experiences shared.

ANOCA Athletes Commission Chairperson Gaby Ahrens emphasized the forum's value, stressing how it will directly benefit athletes and their development on and off the field.

Key discussion areas at the forum include NOC AC Grants, preparations for the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026, Sustainability and Legacy, Personal and Social Media Branding workshops, and Athletes' Anti-Doping measures.

The two-day gathering is taking place at the Mercure Hotel in Windhoek and is set to conclude on Sunday.