RismadarVoice Reporters
October 6, 2026
The World Anti-Doping Agency, WADA, has called on Kenya to adopt a tougher zero-tolerance approach to doping as the country prepares to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
WADA President Witold Banka made the call at the conclusion of a three-day visit to Kenya, stressing that the country’s reputation as a global athletics powerhouse must be matched by a strong commitment to clean sport.
Kenya was awarded hosting rights for the 2029 World Athletics Championships last month, becoming the first African country selected to stage the global event.
Banka said hosting the championships would bring greater responsibility and scrutiny, making stronger anti-doping measures essential to protecting athletes and the integrity of the competition.
He urged Kenyan authorities to intensify efforts to prevent doping and strengthen cooperation between sports regulators, security agencies and law enforcement bodies.
According to Banka, WADA and the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya, ADAK, cannot tackle the problem alone, particularly where the production, trafficking and distribution of prohibited substances are involved.
He said discussions with Kenyan authorities during his visit produced a shared commitment to a zero-tolerance approach, with stronger enforcement and cooperation expected to form part of efforts to address doping violations.
Kenya has faced persistent doping concerns in recent years despite its international reputation for producing some of the world’s leading distance runners.
More than 140 Kenyan athletes, predominantly long-distance runners, have been suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit since 2017 over doping-related violations.
Banka said stronger measures would be important as Kenya prepares for 2029, stressing that protecting clean athletes and maintaining confidence in the country’s sporting achievements must remain priorities.
