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• Frank Rotich 28 days ago

Sports CS Mvurya welcomes decision to remove Kenya from WADA watchlist

Kenya has been officially removed from the compliance watchlist of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) after the country implemented major anti-doping reforms through the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK).

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya welcomed the decision, describing it as a major achievement for Kenyan sport and proof of the country’s commitment to clean competition.

In a statement, Mvurya said the government was satisfied with the decision by WADA to close the compliance procedure against Kenya.

He noted that the move followed a recommendation from WADA’s Compliance Review Committee, which confirmed that ADAK is now fully aligned with the global anti-doping code and international standards.

Kenya had been placed under review after a WADA audit conducted in May 2024 identified several areas that required improvement.

Following the findings, the government and ADAK developed and implemented a detailed action plan to address the issues within the required time.

The reforms focused on strengthening governance and oversight within ADAK, improving its operational independence, and enhancing the management of anti-doping results.

Authorities also improved intelligence and investigation systems while streamlining the athlete whereabouts system used to track athletes for testing.

Mvurya said the Ministry of Sports provided strong policy direction, administrative support and additional resources to ensure the country complied with the international anti-doping standards. He added that Kenya did not face any sanctions during the review period.

The Cabinet Secretary said Kenya’s removal from the watchlist sends a strong message to the international sporting community that the country is serious about protecting the integrity of sport.

He however warned that maintaining compliance with global anti-doping rules is a continuous responsibility and said Kenya will remain vigilant.

Going forward, the government plans to expand anti-doping testing programmes, strengthen intelligence-led investigations and increase education and awareness among athletes.

Mvurya concluded by reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to clean sport, saying the country’s sporting success must continue to be built on talent, discipline and integrity.