This archive report was first published on 24 August 2020.
On August 24, 2020, the Kenyan Sports Ministry took a significant step towards reviving sports activities in the country by unveiling protocols for their return. The move comes after a prolonged stoppage due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed led the unveiling of the guidelines in a virtual meeting attended by stakeholders and ministry officials. The stakeholders were given seven days to review the document and provide their input before a final date is set for the resumption of contact and non-contact sports.
According to CS Amina, the guidelines were developed in accordance with the directives of the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO). She expressed hope that the exercise would be completed as soon as possible, paving the way for a sports calendar.
Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Noor Hassan, who chaired the committee, emphasized the importance of a gradual and phased approach to the return of sports. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the pandemic and the need to prioritize public health.
The resumption of sports will be rolled out in stages, starting with testing for players and officials, followed by individual training, and eventually group training. The Ministry has also addressed concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the cost of testing, with plans to waive or lower the charges.
Kenya is set to host several international sporting events in the coming months, including the World Athletics Continental Gold Tour in October and the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in November.
