On Saturday, 21st September 2024, the Ghana Rugby Football Union, in collaboration with World Rugby, Rugby Africa, the National Anti-Doping Agency, and the National Sports Authority, successfully conducted an anti-doping education program. The program aimed to inform players, coaches, managers, officials, and medical staff about critical issues surrounding doping in sports at the Accra Sports Stadium media centre.
Prince Emekor Azanu, the National Anti-Doping Secretariat’s anti-doping officer, emphasised the program’s importance. “This exercise is crucial. Participants scored 7/10, indicating a need for more education on anti-doping trends, new violations, exemptions, and consequences. More forums should be organised for all federations, as anti-doping education must increase with sports becoming more scientific.”
Azanu projected that athletes and support personnel should have frequent forums. “This is just the beginning. Education is progressive; we must engage them before major events. Some are warming up to the issue, while others have no idea, which is dangerous. We should educate them to avoid excuses about anti-doping dos and don’ts.”
Francis Donkor, an experienced rugby player, shared his views after the seminar. “We learnt a lot. When anti-doping officers call you for a test, remain calm and follow them. They’ll take a sample; it’s not an arrest or scare tactic. If you’re clean, it’s good.”
Donkor encouraged other federations to introduce similar programs. “Rugby has one or two sections; other athletes should also learn before competing overseas. This will help them become aware of such things.”
Rafatu Inusah, a Ghana Rugby Football Union board member, stressed the importance of educating players. “Anti-doping has been around, but world governing bodies are taking it seriously. We’re continuing to educate our players, coaches, and volunteers on anti-doping dos and don’ts to avoid falling victim.”
Inusah praised the participants’ response, rating it 7/10. “It’s a good performance, but everything is a learning process. Wherever they find errors, they must make corrections. This program is vital for all federations, as Rugby is taking it seriously.”
