The youth have been advised to abstain from drug abuse that could ruin their future lives and careers. Anti-Doping Association of Kenya (ADAK) Director of Education & Research, Agnes Mandu, said it is vital for the youth to know their health status regarding drug abuse.
Mandu said that elite runners and sports superstars such as American Mario Jones and Kenya’s top athletes Asbel Kiprop and Jemimah Chemgong are now wallowing in shame when they failed the anti-doping tests.
“I am urging the youth to avoid eating and taking banned substances like bhang, miraa and other unhealthy substances that will later lead to poor health and end up in rehabilitation centers,” she said, flanked by ADAK Senior Research and Development Officer Martin Yauma. Speaking at a sensitization workshop at Utalii College, Mandu said she was delighted that the National netball team was fully compliant with all the anti-doping rules and regulations. “They are going to benefit a lot through our lessons.
They will now be fully compliant with anti-doping rules and avoid future embarrassments. Above all, they will be knowing what to expect, know their rights and responsibilities,” Mandu explained and added that such workshops should continue as well as extended to various clubs and individuals to create a healthy sports society.
The Kenya Netball Federation (KNF) Secretary General, Millicent Busolo, thanked ADAK for accepting to offer the anti-doping lessons to the players. Noting that the knowledge gained will help them in future. The team is currently in residential training at Nairobi’s YMCA Shauri Moyo, preparing for the World Cup qualifiers slated for Zambia in late August.
Busolo stated that all teams which will go to Zambia, will undergo the necessary anti-doping tests. “It is ideal for the players to be equipped with safety knowledge,” she said. Busolo said that the team requires Sh5 million for the two trips. She appealed for funds from sponsors and well-wishers o get them to the qualifiers in Liverpool
