Cash-strapped ADAK stares eviction over 4 months’ rent arrears
The financially struggling Anti-doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) may soon have its offices shut over four months of rent arrears owed to their landlord.
This was revealed by ADAK Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Sarah Shibutse while appearing before the National Assembly Sports and Culture Committee.
Sarah stated that the cash-strapped agency office may soon be shut down by their landlord due to their failure to pay rent.
The CEO added that ADAK is also struggling to pay its staff salaries adding that the situation might get worse if not supported by the government.
She stated that their budget was cut by almost ninety per cent to Sh20 million from an annual budget of Sh592 million as part of austerity measures by the government.
“The landlord has given us a notice because we have not paid rent since July. The Internet has been disconnected. We are in a dire situation.” The CEO stated.
She expressed her worries that if the situation remains the same, soon the World Anti-Doping Authority (WADA) would declare Kenya as non-compliant; meaning that no Kenyan athlete will be eligible to participate in international competitions.
Further, Kenya would not be allowed to host any international events such as the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In such events, the agency is mandated to conduct doping tests on the participants. Shibutse noted that testing one player would require more than Sh50,000.
“Taking cognizance of the potential pitfalls that may occur, the Agency is therefore pleading with the Committee to intervene and urge the National Treasury to reconsider this funding gap and reinstate the budget for the Agency to protect Kenyan athletes and other players and the country at large from facing sanctions.” Shibutse appealed.
In their response, the legislatures promised to seek mechanisms to support ADAK through the sports fund.
“The Committee has noted with concern grave matters raised by the CEO. We will seek ways of having the Sports Fund support the Agency financially.” chairperson Naomi Waqo Marsabit County MP who chairs the committee said.
Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna echoed Waqo’s sentiments by adding that the agency plays a critical role in the country’s sports sector and hence should be adequately funded.
“It is unjustified to deny ADAK funds when the government knows very well they play a key role in the fight against doping.” He said.
This comes as early this month, WADA officials met with Sport CS Kipchumba Murkomen to discuss ways of strengthening ADAK following government’s decision to slash their budget.
