ITEN, Elgeyo Marakwet — In the wake of high-profile tragedies in Kenyan athletics, training camps in Elgeyo Marakwet County are now implementing robust measures to protect athletes from gender-based violence (GBV) and exploitation. The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), developed with support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and local authorities, aim to provide a clear framework for reporting abuse, investigating allegations, and supporting survivors, ensuring a safer environment for both emerging and professional athletes.
The move follows a string of alarming incidents, including the murders of celebrated athletes Agnes Tirop in 2021 and Damaris Muthee in 2022, which highlighted the vulnerabilities of athletes within training environments. Chepkorir Moraa*, a decorated runner with over 30 medals, recounted how sexual harassment and coercion nearly derailed her career. She described being pressured by managers and coaches to exchange sexual favors for participation in races, forcing her to seek police intervention despite the stigma surrounding such cases. The introduction of SOPs has brought hope, offering training, psychotherapy, and structured guidance to help athletes navigate challenges in the competitive and business-driven sports environment.
Officials and camp managers report that the guidelines have transformed practices across key training hubs, including Iten Athletics Camp, Kiprun 42 House, and Nzimaheart Runners Camp. Paul Masese, CEO of the Centre for Enhancing Democracy and Good Governance, emphasized that the initiative empowers athletes to speak up, while physiotherapists and psychosocial professionals now provide direct support within camps. Athletes like Gladys Chemutai, champion of the 2024 Standard Chartered Marathon, lauded the SOPs for mitigating financial and sexual exploitation, noting that greater transparency and accountability have helped restore trust. With these measures, the North Rift athletics community is taking a firm step toward ending abuse and fostering a safe, equitable environment for women in sports.