Tim Ekandjo, the Chief Human Capital and Corporate Affairs Officer of MTC has urged Namibian, African and World leaders to take on World Athletics on their decision to change the regulations affecting athletes with Differences of Sexual Development, also known as DSD. Their regulations are effective from the 31 of March.

Ekandjo said this during the handover ceremony of two houses to sprinters Christine Mboma and Beatrice Masilingi in Rundu on Monday.

The new rules will require in Namibia's case both Christine Mboma and Beatrice Masilingi to reduce their testosterone levels below 2.5 Nanomoles per litre or at least six months to compete internationally in the female categories of any event.

The President of World Athletics Sebastian Coe said none of the 13 impacted athletes will be able to compete in the World Athletics Championships in Budapest in August, but will be eligible for future events, including the Paris 2024 Olympics, "if they maintain their testosterone at the required level.

"This is a message to Mr. Sebastian Coe, the President of World Athletics. As a Namibian, an African, and a citizen of the world, I would like to say to Mr. Coe that we are embarrassed and disgusted by the decision to dilute our talent and reference it to something that does not exist." Ekandjo said.

Ekandjo added that World Athletics' decision is a direct violation of humanity.

He said “Mboma and Masilingi, we would like to assure you that we will support you all the way. We are with you, so don’t lose hope”.

Meanwhile, the Mboma camp in a press release said "The updated DSD regulations that will come into effect on 31 March 2023 were not expected.

“Our team however remains positive and will work with a medical team to get Christine back on the track as soon as possible. We believe in her abilities and see this as an obstacle that can be overcome” said Christine Mboma management.

Coach Henk explained that they are faced with a challenge in their journey going forward.

 

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Katrina //Gowases