Kenya strengthens anti-doping efforts ahead of World Championships

Speaking at a strategic meeting with the Enhanced Anti-Doping Steering Committee, Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Salim Mvurya, announced that the government would continue allocating annual funding to the Enhanced Anti-Doping Programme.

 He emphasized the critical role the initiative plays in preventing Kenya from facing international suspension.

“The President remains firm in his dedication to a doping-free Kenya. This budget isn’t just about numbers, it’s about preserving our legacy in athletics,” said CS Mvurya.

Since its rollout, the programme has reached over 16,000 stakeholders and directly impacted more than 4,000 athletes through rigorous testing both during and outside competitions.

Mvurya praised the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) for advancing in key areas such as education, intelligence-led investigations, expanded testing, and sanction enforcement.

ADAK has already flagged 31 doping cases, with 23 successfully prosecuted through collaboration with international partners.

Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi pledged continued ministry support to ensure ADAK meets its local and global obligations.

The agency has set up a specialized intelligence unit to dismantle doping networks, including rogue coaches and medical personnel.

Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei also introduced a new digital portal that links ADAK and the Athletics Integrity Unit.

The platform enhances monitoring of athlete performance, age verification, and real-time compliance.

As Kenya prepares to host major continental competitions, the government has vowed to maintain clean sport and uphold global standards of fairness and excellence.

Ruth Chepngetich, the women's marathon world record holder is one of the big names in the country who has been provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) after testing positive for a banned substance.