Moroccan sports official Bouchra Hajij has been elected president of the Confederation of African Olympic Sports Confederations (CASOL). The election took place on November 6 in Dakar, Senegal, at Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium. Hajij's presidency marks a new chapter for CASOL as it aims to strengthen cooperation among African Olympic sports bodies and improve the continent's presence within the international Olympic Movement.
Hajij's vision for CASOL is built around three main principles: excellence, unity, and integrity. Her strategic roadmap leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games focuses on strengthening African sport, developing athletes, and preparing the continent for the Games. The roadmap includes eight priority initiatives, such as establishing Pan-African High-Performance Centres and an African Academy for Coaches and Technical Officials.
The new president's strategy also includes plans for an Athletes' Solidarity Fund, stronger investment in sports science and medicine, and programmes supporting talent identification. Additionally, Hajij aims to promote women's leadership in sports administration and develop initiatives to help athletes transition into life after their sporting careers.
The General Assembly also paid tribute to CASOL's late founding president, Hamad Kalkaba Malboum, recognizing his contribution to the development and unity of African sport. Participants discussed several institutional and operational matters, including the proposed 2027 budget, CASOL's mission to Yaoundé, and preparations for the 2027 African Games in Cairo.
With Hajij's election and the appointment of a new executive board, CASOL is looking to strengthen its continental role and build closer cooperation among African Olympic sports confederations. Her presidency will begin with the implementation of the strategic priorities outlined in the roadmap towards Los Angeles 2028.
Hajij's election is seen as a significant step towards achieving her goals of strengthening African sport and improving the continent's presence within the international Olympic Movement. Her vision and strategic roadmap are expected to guide CASOL's efforts in the lead-up to the 2028 LA Olympics.
The Confederation of African Olympic Sports Confederations (CASOL) is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of African sport. With Bouchra Hajij at the helm, the organization is poised to make significant strides in promoting excellence, unity, and integrity in African sport.
Key points
- Bouchra Hajij's strategic roadmap for CASOL includes establishing Pan-African High-Performance Centres and an African Academy for Coaches and Technical Officials.
- The new president's strategy aims to promote women's leadership in sports administration and develop initiatives to help athletes transition into life after their sporting careers.
- Hajij's vision for CASOL is built around three main principles: excellence, unity, and integrity.
