Gov't raises ADAK budget to Sh185 million

The Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) has lauded the government's move to reinstate its budget allocation for the 2024–2025 fiscal year.

In a statement, the agency described the funding as a significant boost to Kenya’s fight against doping in sports.

"This essential financial commitment by the Government of Kenya represents a vital step in safeguarding the integrity of sports and reaffirms the country’s dedication to the international anti-doping mission," the statement read.

The budget had previously been reduced sharply to just Ksh20 million, sparking concern both within Kenya and from international stakeholders.

During a 2024 audit, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) raised the alarm, cautioning that the drastic cut placed Kenya at risk of falling out of compliance with global anti-doping standards.

Following months of lobbying, the government has increased ADAK’s budget to Ksh185 million.

"This isn’t merely a financial matter, it’s a strong signal that Kenya is committed to clean sport," the agency said in a statement.

ADAK expressed gratitude to President William Ruto, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Parliamentary Sports Committee, and the National Treasury for their support.

The renewed funding will enable the agency to strengthen its testing, education, and investigative efforts, all of which had been strained by the earlier budget reduction.

Despite facing financial constraints, ADAK reported that it successfully carried out 4,161 doping tests during the 2023/24 financial year, surpassing its target of 3,500.

The agency attributed this achievement in part to its continued collaboration with the Athletics Integrity Unit and Athletics Kenya, partnerships it says have significantly bolstered its anti-doping initiatives.

Education continues to be a cornerstone of ADAK’s anti-doping strategy.

The agency has been actively engaging schools and sports clubs to raise awareness about the risks of doping.

A major milestone was achieved last year when anti-doping education was officially integrated into the national curriculum, thanks to collaboration with the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development.

Looking ahead, ADAK aims to expand its network of anti-doping ambassadors and strengthen its presence in training camps.

The agency is also working closely with international partners to ensure Kenyan athletes are well prepared and drug-free ahead of the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo this September.

Reaffirming its commitment to clean sport, ADAK expressed hope that the 2025/26 budget will see further increases to support its growing mandate.