Kenya’s First National Sports Psychology Certification Launched

The Kenya Psychological Association and NOCK unveiled the Certified Sports Psychologist (CSP-K) credential on March 14, 2025—the first standardized accreditation for mental performance coaches in East Africa. The 6-month program includes trauma-informed care, team dynamics, and crisis intervention, with practicums at national camps. 42 professionals graduated in the first cohort, including 18 assigned to county teams. Mental fitness is as vital as VO₂ max, said lead trainer Dr. Samuel Ochieng. Athletics Kenya now requires CSP-K certification for all national team psychologists. A mobile app, *MindFit*, offers free guided sessions in Swahili and Sheng. Early impact: 73% of athletes reported improved focus at the Kip Keino Classic. FIFA invited Kenya to co-develop an AU-wide curriculum.