The International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) is delighted to announce the appointment of Sharon Ogaji to its Safeguarding Commission. With an extensive background in sports safeguarding and athlete welfare, Ogaji brings a wealth of expertise to IMMAF’s efforts in promoting safe and ethical sporting environments.
Ogaji is a dedicated Safeguarding Officer in Sports and an emerging sports management professional with a legal background. Holding a Certificate in Safeguarding Officer in Sports from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from Strathmore University, she has been actively involved in developing safeguarding policies, ensuring compliance, and assessing risks within the sporting sector.
Her contributions to Kenyan sports organisations have been instrumental in strengthening athlete protection. She has worked closely with the National Olympic Committee of Kenya, where she led the country’s first-ever Safeguarding Training of Trainers seminar. This initiative aimed to equip coaches, staff, and volunteers across national sports federations with the necessary knowledge and tools to implement safeguarding policies effectively.
In addition to her work in Kenya, Ogaji played a key role in developing the safeguarding policy and code of conduct for the Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games, ensuring a secure and supportive environment for all participants. She has also worked with the Taekwondo Federation of Kenya, raising awareness of safeguarding principles and their critical role in sports.
Beyond her expertise in safeguarding, Ogaji is an accomplished athlete. A former regional record holder in triple jump and a standout basketball player, she earned an 80% sports scholarship at Strathmore University, was twice named MVP for Strathmore Women’s Basketball, and currently competes in the Kenyan National Premier League for Stanbic Bank of Kenya.
Her first assignment with IMMAF will be at the 2025 IMMAF Africa Championships in Luanda, Angola, where she will oversee safeguarding measures to ensure a safe and inclusive competition environment.
With her appointment, IMMAF continues to reaffirm its dedication to upholding the highest standards of athlete welfare, ensuring that all competitors, coaches, and staff operate in a secure and supportive sporting ecosystem.
