Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba has expressed his delight following the World Aquatics’ decision to lift Kenya’s four-year ban on swimmers, a move that allows Kenyan swimmers to participate in qualifiers for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The ban was initially imposed in 2019 due to the Kenya Swimming Federation (KSF) failing to meet election deadlines. The KSF also faced allegations of discrimination in the selection of swimmers for national, regional, and continental competitions.
Namwamba, recognizing the time-sensitive nature of sports, emphasized the potential career consequences of a four-year suspension for swimmers.
“It is important to note that sports is age-sensitive, and excluding a swimmer for four years may result in the demise of one’s career,” Namwamba emphasized.
He further pledged that his ministry would take proactive measures to prevent future suspensions and bans in the realm of sports.
Namwamba also reiterated Kenya’s unwavering stance on doping, cautioning athletes to compete fairly, as those found using performance-enhancing drugs would face stringent penalties.
Kenya has long grappled with allegations of widespread doping in the sports community, particularly in athletics. The government has committed an annual budget of approximately Ksh. 750 million over the next five years to intensify the fight against doping within the nation.
