The Oman Aquatics Association’s (OAA) Election Committee has officially closed the nomination process for the upcoming 2024-2028 election term which is set to take place on March 26.
Three candidates are competing for the Chairmanship post including Dr Awadh bin Salim al Ojaili, Tariq bin Salim al Hashmi and Lujaina bint Mohsin Haider Darwish al Zaabiyah. The vice-presidency has also attracted three candidates including: Salim bin Hamad al Hasani, Ahmed bin Ali al Marhoon and Jassim bin Nasib al Shanfari. Meanwhile, two candidates are vying for the women’s seat including: Sayyidah Rouya bint Said al Busaidiyah and Madeeha bint Said al Sulaimaniyah. Additionally, six individuals are running for board membership including: Hamed bin Muslim al Hajri, Waleed bin Shabeeb al Balushi, Mallallah bin Mabrook al Busaidy, Ibrahim bin Saif al Wahibi, Khalid bin Bader al Thuhli and Ali bin Khalaf al Sheidi.
Lujaina al Zaabi’s candidacy marks a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to run for the presidency of the Oman Aquatics Federation. No woman has ever led the association before making this a milestone nomination in the upcoming election.
Lujaina is widely recognised as one of Oman's most accomplished female leaders, having held various leadership positions across different sectors. She is also a successful entrepreneur who has made a significant impact in her field. In 2003, she became the first woman to preside over a sports club in Oman and the GCC when she took over as President of Ahli Sidab Club. She has also served as a board member of the Oman Football Association (OFA) and the Oman Olympic Committee, further solidifying her reputation as a key figure in Omani sports administration.
Clear Vision Commenting on her candidacy, Lujaina stated:” Without a doubt, having a woman lead the Oman Aquatics Association reflects the remarkable progress Omani women have achieved in various fields. If elected, I will work closely with my team to develop aquatic sports across all levels in the coming years." “ I will focus in different areas including: Enhancing youth development programmes to nurture future talent for clubs and national teams. Introducing dedicated competitions for women to encourage greater female participation in aquatic sports. Establishing a national women’s swimming team, ensuring it is built on a solid foundation with a strong talent pipeline. Creating pathways for Omani women in swimming, allowing them to compete at both national and international levels,” she ended
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