WADA optimistic that Kenyan Government will reconsider budget cuts to anti-doping program

This week, the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Africa Office Director, Rodney Swigelaar, met with the Government of Kenya Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, the Hon. Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen, in Nairobi to discuss matters related to strengthening the program of the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK). During the meeting, Mr. Murkomen provided assurances that his Ministry would continue efforts to ensure that the annual budget of ADAK reflects the country’s ongoing commitment to clean sport. 

Of concern for WADA had been the significant cut, by almost 90% from the previous year’s allocation, by the Government in the annual operational budget of ADAK and the potential impact this would have on athletes in Kenya. The meeting coincided with the issuance of a Corrective Action Report to ADAK following WADA’s audit of the National Anti-Doping Organization earlier this year, which identified several critical areas of required improvement, including the requirement for more resources to ensure that its programs remained relevant and fit for purpose.  

Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Swigelaar said: “WADA is grateful to Mr. Murkomen for the time he took out of his busy schedule to engage on this matter which is very important for WADA, ADAK, and Kenyan sport. During the meeting, the Cabinet Secretary acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and committed to address ADAK’s pressing financial situation urgently. The anticipated review of the current financial commitment to anti-doping in Kenya, should enable ADAK to implement all the corrective actions within specified deadlines and ensure the continuation of its clean sport program.  

“Kenyan sport and ADAK have come a long way in recent years, so it is pleasing that the Government, and the Cabinet Secretary in particular, is showing real leadership in this area and has made this clear commitment with the objective of providing Kenyan athletes with the protection provided by the World Anti-Doping Code and the level playing field they deserve.”