Eswatini is set to welcome delegates from across Southern Africa next week for a landmark Olympic Values Education Programme (OVEP) and Clean Sport Workshop, organised under the auspices of the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) Zone VI. The four-day regional gathering, scheduled for 28–31 October 2025 at Esibayeni Lodge in Matsapha, will unite representatives from 10 member countries, each sending two delegates—the chairpersons of their National Olympic Academies Commission and Athletes Commission. As the host nation, Eswatini will have four participants, reflecting its growing leadership role in advancing Olympic education and ethical sport across the region.
The announcement was made by Mr. Maxwell Jele, Secretary General of ANOCA Zone VI and Chief Executive Officer of the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA), during a press briefing held at the EOCGA headquarters in Lobamba. Mr. Jele highlighted that the workshop will focus on two critical themes—Olympic Values Education and Clean Sport—both central to building integrity, respect, and excellence within the sporting fraternity. He said the workshop will deepen the collective understanding of Olympism and its values, while also tackling the pressing issue of doping and fair play. Through these discussions, the region aims to strengthen its commitment to clean and ethical sport, empowering delegates to become ambassadors of these principles in their respective countries. He further noted that international facilitators will lead the sessions, ensuring that participants gain global perspectives and practical tools to implement within their national structures.
The workshop marks another milestone in ANOCA Zone VI’s busy and productive year. Since the election of its new executive earlier in 2025, the Zone has conducted leadership handover sessions and participated in key regional and continental events, including the Region 5 Youth Games in Namibia and the African Schools Sport Games in Algeria. Mr. Jele emphasised that the upcoming workshop comes at a pivotal moment, describing it as a platform for collaboration, unity, and growth. He expressed confidence that the delegates will return home inspired to drive meaningful change in their national sports ecosystems. He also revealed that the Zone is already planning its next major initiative—a marketing-focused workshop early next year—which will lead up to the first General Assembly of the new executive set for March 2026.
Organized in partnership with the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association, the OVEP and Clean Sport Workshop is supported by Olympic Solidarity, whose consistent backing continues to strengthen the development of sport and education across Africa. By hosting this regional event, Eswatini once again positions itself as a hub for Olympic learning and collaboration in Southern Africa, reflecting the country’s dedication to promoting excellence, friendship, and respect through sport.