WADA Places Kenya on Anti-Doping Watchlist Amid Ongoing Violations

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has moved Kenya's anti-doping agency, ADAK, from a non-compliance status to a watch list as a sign of progress, though significant challenges remain. WADA Director General Olivier Niggli highlighted ongoing issues such as insufficient testing, lack of adequate staff, and difficulties with athlete whereabouts, emphasizing the need for Kenya to fulfill its promises and investments in anti-doping efforts. Kenya, described as having a complicated doping problem, faces high temptation among athletes due to the financial rewards of international success, necessitating increased vigilance. The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) noted improvements in Kenya's doping controls over the past year but also revealed that 20 Kenyan athletes, including women's marathon world record-holder Ruth Chepngetich, have been banned for doping violations in 2025. WADA President Witold Banka acknowledged the Kenyan government's commitment to increase funding for anti-doping programs but warned that failure to address these issues properly could lead to a return to non-compliance with serious consequences. Overall, while progress is recognized, Kenya's anti-doping framework remains under close scrutiny to ensure sustained compliance and effectiveness.