The NOCZ has appointed the CRMP to help with its anti-doping operations ©Getty Images

The National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ) has been appointed the Continental Results Management Panel (CRMP) to help enforce anti-doping rules.

The NOCZ decision was made to ensure compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code and the International Standard for Results Management.

It allows athletes accused of anti-doping rule violations the right to a fair hearing by an "operationally independent panel" for first instance hearings.

"The adoption of the CRMP Africa as the first instance hearing panel is a significant step forward for NOC Zambia and will contribute to the fair and efficient resolution of anti-doping disputes," read an NOCZ statement.

The CRMP is currently made up of 12 members from nine different countries.

There is currently one Zambian on the 12-person Continental Results Management Panel ©Getty Images
There is currently one Zambian on the 12-person Continental Results Management Panel ©Getty Images

Charles Mwiinga Haambote is the only Zambian on the panel.

He is joined by Egypt's Charles Moubarak, Yirsaw Zewdie Belachew of Ethiopia, Kenyans Jane Njeri Onyango and Edmond Gichuru, Zione Ntaba of Malawi, Moroccans El Mohktar Sentissi and Mbarek Janaoui, and Kodzo Dogbéda Agano of Togo.

Zimbabwe's Ringisai Kudzanai Hillario Mapondera and Muchadeyi Ashton Masunda are also on the panel, with the latter serving as chairperson.

The World Anti-Doping Agency has stated that after changing to the CRMP for first instance hearings, regional anti-doping organisations can continue to use Sports Resolution - International Hearing Panel (SR-IHP) for appeals until the end of 2023.