Athletics Kenya reiterate tough stance on fight against doping

Athletics Kenya (AK) have announced they will leave no stone unturned in their fight to kick out the ugly head of doping that is fast threatening to tarnish the reputation of the sport in the country.

In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the governing body noted with concern the increasing number of dopers reported by the Athletics Integrity Unit that has seen upto 25 athlete nabbed just this year alone for committing various offences.

“We take great exception to the recent spate of doping offences involving Kenyan athletes and note with deep regret that this year alone, up to 25 athletes have been banned for violating anti-doping rules and regulations.

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Athletics Kenya is currently doing everything possible to unearth the perpetrators of the doping vice. We remain committed to playing our part to ensure doping is a thing of the past by fully co-operating with the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), World Athletics and ADAK in investigations,” the statement from AK read.

In response to the increasing number of cases, AK revealed the steps they are currently taking to safeguard the future of the powerhouse sport in the country.

“In the past week, for instance, Athletics Kenya has undertaken a countrywide initiative to meet various coaches and athletes with the aim of equipping them with skills and knowledge that will aid in the fight against doping.

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In equal measure, we have also put in place stringent measures to prevent athletes from falling prey to unscrupulous coaches and managers. We want to ensure that our athletes are insulated from rogue agents and coaches and take this opportunity to thank the Sports Cabinet Secretary-designate, Hon. Ababu Namwamba, for undertaking to join the war against doping,” they stated.

Additionally, AK reiterated their commitment in working and coordinating with the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya and AIU to help curb the sport as they urged members of the public to also play a part in reporting suspicious cases.

“In our TV interview of 24th October, 2022 with ADAK official and Head of AIU Mr. Brett Clothier we reiterated our commitment in working and coordinating with the two institutions to enable a common understanding on the fight against doping.

We urge all the stakeholders and members of the public to join in this fight by reporting to ADAK, AIU and any nearest police station or indeed Athletics Kenya offices suspicious activities among athletes, coaches, medics and others abetting doping to the nearest police station, or indeed any Athletics Kenya office,” AK concluded.

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