A first for Fiji

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Sitiveni Rokoro. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

SITIVENI Rokoro has been named as the first chief executive officer of Drug-Free Sports Fiji, the newly established independent National Anti-Doping Organisation (NADO), the first of it’s kind in the country.

This historic appointment marks a significant step forward in Fiji’s commitment to promoting clean and fair sports across all levels of competition.

Drug-Free Sports Fiji was created under the Ministry of Youth and Sports as a statutory body tasked with enforcing the Anti-Doping Act 2024.

Working closely with international partners such as World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) and UNESCO, the organisation aims to ensure that Fijian athletes competing on the global stage do so with integrity and accountability.

The new body will oversee comprehensive anti-doping testing and education programs, extending efforts from elite sports down to local schools.

Rokoro, as the first CEO, will lead the organisation’s strategic plan for 2027-2030, which focuses on transparency, education, and rigorous enforcement of anti-doping regulations.

His leadership is seen as pivotal in advancing Fiji’s sports integrity framework and fostering a culture of clean competition nationwide.

Jone Koroitamana, Manager of Sports, highlighted the significance of this development, noting the strong government support behind the initiative.

“We are taking a major leap towards safeguarding the integrity of sports in Fiji. This will benefit athletes, sports organisations, and the community as a whole,” Koroitamana said.

Kamlesh Krishna, president of Drug-Free Sports Fiji, praised the appointment and the organisation’s vision.

“This is a proud moment for Fiji. The trust placed in Drug-Free Sports Fiji and Mr. Rokoro’s leadership will ensure that our sporting future is built on fairness, transparency, and respect for the rules,” Krishna said.

Rokoro recently tendered his resignation as CEO of Cricket Fiji to fully dedicate himself to this new role. He will formally commence his duties on March 16.

This transition marks a historic milestone in Fiji’s sports landscape, setting the stage for stronger anti-doping enforcement.