The Medical Commission of the African Volleyball Confederation (CAVB) unveiled its activity program for the 2024-2028 period on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. This presentation took place during a hybrid meeting chaired by Mrs. Bouchra Hajij, President of the CAVB, who reaffirmed the institution’s strong commitment to the health of athletes and volleyball stakeholders.
Emphasizing the fundamental role of medical professionals in the Confederation’s mission, Mrs. Hajij stressed the need for optimal medical care:
“The presence of our qualified medical professionals during competitions is essential for preventing and managing injuries while ensuring quality care for athletes.”
She also highlighted the importance of anti-doping efforts, in compliance with the regulations of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA):
“Clean sport is an absolute priority. We are fully committed to enforcing strict measures to uphold the integrity of our competitions.”
Strengthening Training and Medical Protocols
Education is a key pillar of the Medical Commission’s action plan. In this regard, the CAVB plans to launch a series of online educational seminars for healthcare professionals involved in volleyball. Mrs. Hajij also emphasized the enhancement of medical protocols during Confederation-organized events:
“We must ensure that our emergency management and health security measures remain strong and effective.”
The upcoming African Club Championships in Nigeria and the Men’s African Championships in Libya will serve as strategic opportunities to implement these new medical standards. Mrs. Hajij expressed her confidence in the expertise of the Medical Commission members to meet this challenge:
“The implementation of all medical preparedness measures will be a key factor in the success of our competitions. This mission is ambitious, but I am convinced that your skills and dedication will be valuable assets to the CAVB.”
Key Priorities of the 2024-2028 Plan
Presented by Professor Mamadou Ndoye, President of the CAVB Medical Commission, the action plan is based on several major strategic pillars.
The plan focuses on mobilizing and revitalizing national medical commissions to ensure better coordination and efficiency in interventions.
It also proposes strengthening medical and health security for volleyball stakeholders by enhancing medical facilities during competitions.
Professor Mamadou Ndoye and his team outlined specific measures for players, including medical supervision of matches and training sessions during international competitions. As for referees, they emphasized the importance of pre-competition medical check-ups conducted by a designated medical officer.
Additionally, the commission suggests implementing systematic alcohol testing before matches, in consultation with the designated referee.
Anti-Doping Fight: A Top Priority
The Medical Commission stresses the importance of raising awareness among all stakeholders about the dangers of doping. As a preventive measure, it recommends providing federal doctors with the updated list of prohibited substances published by WADA.
The Commission also encourages national federations to implement anti-doping tests in collaboration with relevant national agencies.
Through this ambitious action plan, the CAVB reaffirms its commitment to prioritizing athletes’ health while ensuring competitions adhere to international standards in medical governance and anti-doping regulations.
