World Athletics has announced with deep sorrow the death of its Council Member Hamad Kalkaba Malboum, who passed away on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, at the age of 75.
Malboum, who also served for more than two decades as President of the Confederation of African Athletics, was widely regarded as a key figure in the development of athletics across Africa and globally.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe paid tribute to his longstanding colleague, describing him as a man of quiet strength, discipline and dedication, whose life combined sport, military service, music and leadership.
Born on 11 November 1950 in Kawadji, Cameroon, Malboum began his sporting journey as a sprinter and long jumper, representing his country in athletics before transitioning into Sports administration.
Over the decades, he held multiple leadership roles, including President of the Cameroon Athletics Federation, President of the Cameroon Handball Federation, and senior positions within international sporting bodies.
At the time of his death, he also served on the International Olympic Committee’s Sport and Environment Commission and other global sports governance structures.
His passing marks the end of a long and influential career dedicated to advancing sport, governance, and athletic development across Africa and beyond.