I have noted the decision by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) on Friday, 23 September 2023, that current South African legislation, the South African Drug Free Sport Amendment Act, 25 of 2006, is not compliant with the World Anti-Doping Code.
We have worked tirelessly to amend legislation as recommended by WADA. There has also been input by WADA in working with us to draft the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) Amendment Bill, which will now be taken through the South African Constitutional process of finalising a Bill.
It is disappointing that South Africa has been found to be non-compliant despite this undertaking to pass legislation which meets the World Anti-Doping Code.
I would like to reassure athletes, sports federations, and the sports public that the non-compliance finding will not affect drug testing in South African sport. SAIDS will continue to deliver services that protect clean sport in South Africa
The South African Government process for promulgating legislation is thorough and comprehensive. Any legislation, including amendments, must meet the muster of the South African Constitution and cannot contradict or nullify any existing laws.
Last night, I officially communicated with WADA President Witold Bańka on South Africa’s position, and have requested to meet with him urgently.
South Africa is committed to anti-doping in sport. SAIDS has done much work to meet the evolving dynamics of compliance in global sport on matters of anti-doping, anti-corruption, governance reforms, child safeguarding and data protection.
The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture will continue to expend all efforts get the Amendment Bill adopted expeditiously.