The SDT — is a specialised legal body set up under the Sport Act for the independent resolution of sports-related disputes, including appeals in anti-doping disputes and governance matters. Among those in attendance were ADAK Director General Penina Vahome, SDT Acting Chairman the Honourable Allan Mola, SDT Secretary and Director General Dr Lia W. Kabiru and the members of the tribunal. Also in attendance were invited experts John Ohaga, SC, C. Arb. FCIArb (former chairman of SDT and sports arbitrator of the Court of Arbitration) and Njeri Onjango, FCIArb member (former member of SDT and chairman of the Continental Commission on Results Management).
The curriculum covered basic operational processes such as location management, outcome management, sample collection, training, scientific research and intelligence-led investigations. These sessions were aimed at deepening the Tribunal's understanding of the operational structure of ADAK.
John Ohaga SC praised the initiative, noting that it allows the members of the arbitral tribunal to make informed and consistent decisions. He stressed that all anti-doping rule violations (ADRV) - both analytical and non-analytical - are substantial legal violations. He also noted that Kenya has one of the most robust outcome management systems in Africa, stressing that legal practitioners must be continuously trained to ensure that judicial decisions are aligned with global standards, rather than standard criminal justice practice.
The Njerie Onyango SC expressed satisfaction with Kenya's progress in anti-doping governance since the Anti-Doping Act was passed in 2016. She spoke about the evolution of athlete education, noting that today's athletes are better informed and have more opportunities to «stay clean and win the right way» than in previous years.
ADAK Director General Penina Vahome emphasised the need for cooperation between the agency and SDT, especially after recent appointments to the tribunal and ahead of the adoption of the World Anti-Doping Code 2027. She thanked Mr. Ohga and Mrs. Onyango for their continued support.
The seminar concluded with an agreement on the important role of SDT in promoting fairness, transparency and integrity in sport. Kenya remains committed to strengthening its clean sport system through legislative reform, training of athletes and ongoing engagement with local and international stakeholders.
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