President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law legislation that aims to harmonise the South Africa’s anti-doping measures with the global code.
Presidential spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said on Saturday that Ramaphosa’s consent to the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) Amendment Bill fortified the country’s commitment to fair play and the well-being of athletes by enhancing the role of SAIDS.
“President Ramaphosa has signed into law the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport Amendment Bill which effects a number of amendments that bring South Africa in line with the World Anti-Doping Code of 2021,” Magwenya said in a statement.
The World Anti-Doping Code harmonises anti-doping policies, rules and regulations with sport organisations and among public authorities globally.
The amendments bring South Africa’s anti-doping efforts in line with international norms and clarify the powers of SAIDS.
As the national anti-doping organization, SAIDS is tasked with preventing the use of prohibited substances in sports, both locally and internationally.
South Africa has in the past few years witnessed notable anti-doping cases involving rugby players, sprinters and surfers.
JN/APA