U.S. Embassy Kenya Chargé d'Affaires Susan Burns urges Kenyan athletes to shun doping

Speaking Thursday during a visit at Global Communications training camp in Kaptagat, Uasin Gishu County, Burns said doping and drug abuse posed health risks, potential international bans for the country, and the destruction of personal careers.

“I'm not an expert in that area, but I would like to advise the athletes as the way I offer guidance to my own children. They should take time and reconsider what will happen to them in future if they decide to go that route," said Burns.

Burns lauded Kenyan athletes for putting the country on the global map, even as she expressed optimism that Kenya will eventually slay the doping menace which has threatened the country’s athletics excellence and pride.

“I'm really impressed by the hard work of Kenyan athletes, I'm looking forward to Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and I'm hoping the athletes I have met today will be there doing duty for Kenya,” added Burns.

Burns added that the success of any athlete was the mind set and discipline that is creating an inspiration to many.

She was received by marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge and track queen Faith Kipyegon, among other athletes.

“The mental capacity and discipline are something that is really unique with the Kenyan athletes. I'm interested to learn more about that mindset, is it the uniqueness of the training facilities, the community support, I think that's really incredible.”

In recent years, Kenya has been hit hard with cases involving high-profile athletes who have either been suspended or banned by World Athletics over doping allegations, including women’s marathon world record holder Ruth Chepngetich in 2025.

Kenya, together with Ethiopia, Ukraine, Belarus, Nigeria and Bahrain have been placed in category A by World Athletics with their athletes likely to cheat.