Sports Cabinet Secretary Wario’s stand on doping is a step in the right direction

Dr Hassan Wario, centre, Minister for Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture receive a KPL trophy from Jerry Onyango, right, Captain Gor Mahia. Looking on is Sam Nyamweya, second right, Ambrose Rachier, second left, Chairman Gor Mahia and Robert Asembo, left, during Gor Mahia luncheon after winning KPL Title 2014 at Hotel Crownie plaza in Nairobi on Wednesday, November 12th, 2014. Photo/Jonah Onyango

I mentioned last week that unless something drastic happens, Kenyan athletics was on the verge of a catastrophic collapse. From doping scandals to all out war within the management of Athletics Kenya, the gains made by our athletes over the years looked to be going up in smoke.

The wrangles still continue as officials within the ruling body seek to forcibly remove long serving boss Isaiah Kiplagat. However, Cabinet Secretary for Sport Hassan Wario appears to have taken the lead in anti-doping by saying the government will partner with sports associations in not only tightening the noose in regards to dope-testing, but also sensitising sportsmen and women about the dangers of testing positive for banned substances.