KEMRI launches Sports Science Research Centre in Eldoret

The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has made another milestone in sports research, after launching a Sports Science Research Center in Eldoret.

The centre is aimed at prioritizing sports health research which includes, comprehensive analysis of biological passports, factors associated with anti-doping testing, nutrition and sports injuries, and will serve as the Rift Valley regional station for research activities for the institute.

The chairman of the KEMRI board of directors Dr. Abdulahi Ali Ibrahim noted that the centre was aiming at eventually creating a comprehensive anti-doping laboratory in the ‘City of Champions’.

“It fills me with great pleasure and gratitude to reflect on how far we have come since our initial discussions about establishing a centre dedicated to research activities in sports medicine, anti-doping, and the eventual creation of a comprehensive anti-doping lab right here in Eldoret,” he said.

In alignment with the spirit of devolution, Dr. Ibrahim explained that, KEMRI was actively setting up new research and laboratory facilities in regions such as Kirinyaga, Mandera, and Kwale.

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The launch comes at a time when Eldoret is hosting the 10th devolution conference.

He, further said that the long-term dream was made a reality thanks to partners like Anti-doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), Athletics Kenya, and some of the country’s exceptional athletes.

KEMRI Director General Professor Elijah Songok revealed that, the initiative sought to provide a holistic platform that supports, the excellence of sports teams across their various needs from direct physical health, social, and mental well-being.

Also, attendance was Uasin Gishu county governor Jonathan Chelilim Bii, who lauded the move, noting that the devolved government was ready to offer full support.

“You have chosen the right place. This is where athletes are born. All communities in Kenya can do sports, but the largest volume is from Uasin Gishu. This is a very welcome idea. We are open to talks on giving land for the construction of the same. This will be a great value addition to the city,” he noted.

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The move comes at a time when Kenya is still placed under category A under the Anti-Doping rules of World Athletics.

This means that athletes must undergo at least three no-notice tests. So far, more than 60 Kenyan athletes have been banned and others provisionally suspended for doping.