‘Kenya’s doping crisis driven by poverty’ – Athletics Integrity Unit boss
By Joel Sang, August 16, 2023The head of the Independent Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) Brett Clothier has claimed that Kenya’s doping crisis is motivated by the desire of athletes to run away from poverty.
Recently, the athletic fraternity has been hit by a number of cases, with some athletes getting suspended or banned for the use of prohibited substances.
Now, Clothier, who was appointed to head the integrity unit in June 2017, has discussed the doping crisis in the country and what could be the leading factors influencing Kenyan stars to engage in the illegal act.
Temptation to cheat
“[In Kenya], there is a temptation to dope that’s like no other part of our sport, not even close.
“This money that we’re talking about … is life-changing. Not just for them, but for their families and their whole communities. In essence, it really is all about the money.
“They take risks that no one, no other athletes who are controlled by us, would normally take,” Clothier said, as quoted by AP.
The country established its own doping agency, the Anti-Doping Agency Kenya (ADAK), in 2016, even though the nation has been a powerhouse in the athletics world. Kenya has also won the second-most medals across the board in the history of the world, behind the United States.
The IAAF established the Athletics Integrity Unit in 2017 to oversee international track and field’s anti-doping operations.
Clothier conceded that they expect more positive results from the Kenyan athletes, saying it is a long ride with even more failed tests and more athletes banned.
“We’re certainly expecting more positive tests. I’ll tell you that straight away. But that’s the system working,” he concluded.
Kipyegon’s promise
Meanwhile, Faith Kipyegon, the triple world record holder, said they are committed to making Kenya a country free of doping cases.
“We’re trying to clean up our country,” Kipyegon said.
Since 2017, more than 180 doping cases have been reported in Kenya, painting a negative image of a country that has excelled in long-distance and marathon competitions.
Recently, 2008 Summer Olympics 800m gold medal winner Wilfred Bungei lauded Cabinet Secretary for Sports Ababu Namwamba for his efforts to end the doping crisis.