At its semi-annual meeting last month, the Board of the International Testing Agency (ITA) welcomed Ms. Dagmawit Girmay Berhane and reviewed progress on its 2023-2026 strategic plan. As of June, 91% of 152 projects had either been completed or were underway.
Berhane succeeds Professor Uğur Erdener, who had held the role since the ITA’s founding. A 2023 honoree among the “100 Most Influential African Women,” she served as President of the Ethiopian Olympic Committee from 2004 to 2008. She currently holds multiple roles at the International Olympic Committee (IOC), including membership in the Human Rights Advisory Committee and Audit Committee.
“After years of serving the Olympic Movement, I understand that principles like fairness, respect, and integrity unite athletes worldwide,” Berhane stated. “I look forward to supporting the ITA’s efforts to uphold these values through independent, collaborative anti-doping initiatives that athletes can trust.”
The ITA Foundation Board comprises four independent members—including Chair Dr. Valérie Fourneyron—and three representatives from athletes, the IOC, and international sports federations. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) participates as a non-voting observer.
The meeting underscored the ITA’s focus on operational efficiency and governance, with Berhane’s appointment adding diverse expertise to its mission of safeguarding clean sport globally.
