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Kenyan athletes can finally breathe a sigh of relief after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) formally removed Kenya from its compliance watchlist.
In a statement dated Wednesday, March 4, 2026, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya welcomed the decision, terming it a major milestone for the country’s sporting sector.
“The Government of Kenya welcomes and notes with great satisfaction the decision by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to formally close the compliance procedure concerning Kenya and remove the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) from the compliance ‘watchlist’,” read part of the statement.
WADA Removes Kenya from Doping Compliance Watchlist
The Sports CS stated that WADA confirmed the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) has fully aligned with the World Anti-Doping Code and the applicable international standards.
He added that the decision followed a recommendation by the World Anti-Doping Agency Compliance Review Committee and officially closed the compliance procedure that stemmed from an audit conducted in May 2024.
According to Mvurya, the government moved swiftly after the audit findings to implement corrective measures within the stipulated timelines.
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ADAK developed and executed a comprehensive action plan. This plan strengthened governance and oversight structures, enhanced operational independence, improved results management systems, reinforced intelligence and investigations capacity, and streamlined the management of athletes’ whereabouts.
Throughout the process, the Cabinet Secretary stated that the government had treated the matter with urgency and seriousness.
He cited firm policy direction, administrative support, and increased resource allocation that ensured full compliance. No formal non-compliance sanctions were imposed on Kenya during the review period.
Government Pledges Continued Fight Against Doping Despite Clearance
Mvurya stated that Kenya’s removal from the watchlist sends a strong message to the global sporting community that the country remains committed to clean sport, accountability, and safeguarding the integrity of athletics and other disciplines.
While celebrating the achievement, he stressed that compliance with global anti-doping regulations remains a continuous obligation, adding that Kenya welcomes ongoing oversight by WADA as part of efforts to strengthen transparency and credibility in sport.
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The government further pledged sustained investment in testing programmes, intelligence-led investigations, education and awareness campaigns, as well as stronger legal and governance frameworks to bolster the fight against doping.
Mvurya commended ADAK leadership, intelligence teams, and stakeholders for their role in implementing the corrective measures that led to Kenya’s clearance.
He reaffirmed that Kenya’s global sporting reputation, built on talent and resilience, must equally be defined by integrity.
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Sports CS Salim Mvurya. PHOTO/PCS