This archive report was first published on 5 December 2019.
Kenya's athletics scene has been marred by doping scandals, with the country ranking third in the number of doping cheats, behind suspended Russia and India. However, the Kenyan government is taking a bold step towards a cleaner athletics scene by criminalising doping.
According to a report by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), Kenya has the highest risk of doping, with athletes facing a gross risk to their careers. The AIU report, released mid-year, highlighted the severity of the issue, with Kenya ranking third in the number of doping cheats.
At Athletics Kenya, officials have vowed to take serious action against doping, with a focus on protecting the country's athletes and reputation. The organisation believes that criminalising doping is a necessary step to prevent individuals from putting the entire country at risk of being locked out of international competitions.
As the country moves to amend its Anti-Doping Laws, Sports Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohammed has reiterated her commitment to eradicating doping. The government, through the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (Adak), is working to popularise the Road Running Integrity Programme for 2020, a key component of the fight against doping.
The partnership between Adak, AIU, and AK aims to promote a level playing field for all athletes, with a focus on out-of-competition anti-doping programmes. The move is expected to nip in the bud possibilities of 'unclean' athletes from participating in international events.
Elite athletes are being urged to support the anti-doping programmes, which will have a direct impact on upcoming runners who will feel they can succeed without having to cheat. With a second anti-doping seminar currently underway in Eldoret, it is imperative that more funding is provided to cover a wider group of athletes.
