Kenya: Kenya’s anti-doping agency, ADAK, is set to be placed on a watchlist as a mitigation of the non-compliant status declared last month, according to the director general of the World Anti-Doping Agency, WADA, Olivier Niggli.
According to Voice of Nigeria, ADAK was warned in September of serious consequences unless the East African nation addressed critical requirements following an audit carried out in May last year. Niggli explained at a World Anti-Doping Agency media briefing that moving Kenya onto the watchlist from non-compliance would ensure that all necessary measures are implemented, and the actions taken by ADAK will be closely monitored over the next six months.
Niggli emphasized the importance of fulfilling promises and investments made by ADAK. He noted that while immediate changes are not anticipated, the threat of non-compliance persists, given the ongoing challenges in the agency’s operations. He highlighted issues such as athletes’ whereabouts, which are complicated by logistical challenges in finding athletes due to the lack of permanent addresses.
He further elaborated on the high temptation for Kenyan athletes, as success in athletics can secure financial stability for them and their families. This increases the need for vigilance in maintaining integrity in the sport.
The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) had stated last month that there had been improvements in Kenya over the past year, indicating progress in addressing anti-doping concerns.