Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Des Erasmus
Published on 2024-03-11 09:10:07
The recent protest staged by Kenyan athletes at Nyayo stadium has shed light on the ongoing issues within the country’s sports management. The athletes were furious about the decision to only take one person per discipline to the upcoming All Africa track and field games in Accra, as opposed to the historical practice of sending three athletes per discipline. This decision sparked outrage among both the athletes and fans, with many viewing it as a reflection of the corruption and incompetence prevalent in Kenyan sports management.
Leading the protest was 800m world champion Mary Moraa, who vocalized the athletes’ concerns about the lack of opportunity for those who had trained and prepared for this event. The sentiment among Kenyan athletics fans was one of disappointment but not surprise, as they have seen similar instances of mismanagement and corruption in the past. The lack of accountability and transparency within the system has led to widespread frustration and distrust among the sporting community.
This is not the first time that Kenya has faced such controversies in sports management. In 2016, the country’s sports minister was charged with embezzling a substantial amount of money allocated for the Olympic team, leading to a public outcry. Despite these challenges, Kenya’s athletes continue to excel on the world stage, with athletes like Faith Kipyegon, Brigid Kosgei, and Eliud Kipchoge setting records and representing their country with pride.
On the other hand, the Uganda women’s netball team has also experienced its share of struggles due to corrupt officials within the national sports federation. Despite their success on the international stage, the She Cranes have had to navigate through chaos and mismanagement back home. The team’s president exposed financial irregularities within the federation, leading to a series of investigations and allegations of embezzlement.
The examples of corruption and mismanagement in African sports extend beyond Kenya and Uganda. In Cameroon, former soccer star Samuel Eto’o is being investigated for alleged match-fixing, while Nigerian football players have protested against unpaid bonuses and allowances. Reports of corruption, neglect, and abuse within sports governance have raised concerns about the wellbeing of athletes and the integrity of the sports industry in Africa.
The case studies presented in this article serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by African athletes due to the actions of corrupt officials and administrators. Despite these obstacles, the talent and potential of African sports stars continue to shine through, highlighting the resilience and determination of athletes in the face of adversity. It is essential for sports management to prioritize the welfare and development of athletes to ensure a fair and transparent sporting environment for all.
Read the original article on Mail & Guardian
