The Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) officially began the sixth edition of its two-day media workshop in Mombasa on Friday, aimed at promoting accurate reporting of doping issues in the country.
Speaking at the workshop venue, Dr. Martin Yauma, a prominent Kenyan sports scientist and leading expert in anti-doping, noted that the two-day engagement with members of the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) reflects a shared responsibility in safeguarding clean sport.
“As media professionals, you are not just reporters of events — you are shapers of narratives, custodians of public trust, and powerful partners in promoting integrity within sport,” said Yauma, who is currently serving as the Acting Director of Standards and Compliance (formerly Head of Education and Research) at ADAK.
Yauma added that reporting with precision is crucial for journalists covering anti-doping matters in the country because the subject is scientifically complex, legally sensitive, and reputationally explosive.
According to the facilitators, one misstep can have far-reaching consequences, making accuracy paramount. Anti-doping is anchored on the principles of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the global framework established under the World Anti-Doping Code.
“However, the success of this framework depends significantly on awareness, accurate reporting, and informed public discourse — areas where you play a critical role. Your reporting influences how athletes, federations, policymakers, and the public understand issues such as doping violations and sanctions, Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUEs), testing procedures, and results management,” said Yauma.
The ADAK/SJAK media workshop is therefore designed to demystify anti-doping regulations, clarify legal frameworks, and strengthen collaboration between ADAK and the media fraternity. It aims to equip journalists with factual, clear, and practical knowledge that will enhance accurate, ethical, and balanced reporting.
In addition, the two-day conference is intended to equip sports journalists with the technical knowledge and investigative tools required to navigate the evolving anti-doping landscape, thereby improving the accuracy of reporting on doping cases and reducing legal risks for media houses
