Prof. Andrew Owusu OLY has been unanimously elected by delegates representing 33 African National Olympians Associations (NOAs) as Africa’s representative to the leadership of the World Olympians Association (WOA).
The election took place on Sunday, January 18, 2026, during the WOA General Assembly, which brought together 110 NOAs. The outcome is being widely viewed as a defining moment for Africa’s unity and democratic engagement in international Olympian representation.
The unanimous mandate reflects a rare and decisive display of continental cohesion and confidence in Prof. Owusu’s ability to represent African Olympians at the highest level of international decision-making. African delegates described the process as a critical test of the continent’s capacity to navigate a complex electoral landscape while remaining focused on strengthening Africa’s voice within the WOA through democratic elections rather than appointments.
Prof. Owusu OLY is a three-time Olympian in athletics and has built an extensive post-sport career spanning public health, sports governance, and athlete development. A former elite triple jumper, he is a national record holder and multiple-time continental champion, bringing deep athlete-level experience to his leadership role.
He currently serves as President of the Ghana Olympians Association (GOA) and has played a key role in fostering coordination, dialogue, and collaboration among African NOAs.
Alongside Prof. Owusu’s election, Olumide Oyedeji OLY of Nigeria was elected Secretary-General of the World Olympians Association, while Rosa Rakotozafy OLY was elected Female African Representative, completing Africa’s slate of elected leaders to the WOA.
In a post-election message to fellow NOA Presidents, Prof. Owusu emphasised that the outcome represented more than an individual victory.
He described the election as a collective achievement that demonstrated Africa’s ability to remain united while respecting democratic independence and diverse perspectives. He also expressed appreciation to outgoing continental representatives for their stewardship during some of the most challenging periods in the WOA’s history.
Prof. Owusu underscored that his mandate, alongside those of his fellow African representatives and the newly elected Secretary-General, is grounded in service and accountability. He reaffirmed his commitment to representing the collective will of African NOAs and to working collaboratively with WOA leadership to advance the interests of Olympians worldwide.
“The campaign is now behind us, and the real work begins,” Prof. Owusu said, stressing that Africa’s shared aspirations within the WOA can only be realised through continued cooperation, unity, and collective action.
The election comes at a time when the World Olympians Association is strengthening collaboration with the International Olympic Committee to enhance long-term support, representation, and post-career opportunities for Olympians worldwide, underscoring the importance of inclusive and effective leadership within the WOA.
Prof. Owusu’s election is widely regarded as a milestone for African Olympians, reflecting growing continental cohesion and influence. His term begins immediately, with a focus on translating shared aspirations into action and strengthening representation and support for African Olympians on the global stage.
