The KEMRI Sports Science Research Centre (SSRC) is a pioneering initiative focused on advancing sports health research, reflecting a national commitment to enhancing athletic performance and well-being.

SSRC aims to be a leading centre in sports health and performance research dedicated to enhancing the well-being and success of athletes

This initiative aims to address the critical needs of Kenyan athletes, with a particular focus on combating doping and focus on personalized approaches in training and rehabilitation.

Focus areas in sports medicine include:

Anti-doping research; essential for promoting ethical competition and protecting the integrity of sports by educating athletes, coaches, and sports organizations about the dangers of doping. Advanced doping prevention and detection efforts rely on state-of-the-art equipment and rigorous testing protocols as well as capacity building by training scientists, researchers, and professionals on advanced sports science and anti-doping practices.

The Centre aims to use advanced prevention and detection technologies, alongside capacity-building initiatives, to enhance global anti-doping efforts.

Nutrition research is tailored to optimize athletes’ performance, recovery, and overall health. By studying dietary patterns and nutrient metabolism, researchers develop specific diet plans that cater to athletes’ needs, contributing to public health strategies and policies that promote healthier diet.

Mental health research is vital in addressing the psychological and emotional challenges athletes face. This focuses on understanding mental health disorders’ causes and prevalence, developing targeted prevention and intervention strategies that support athletes’ well-being on and off the field.

Social and behavioural research explores the complexities of athletes’ behaviour and decision-making processes, offering insights that help develop interventions to promote ethical conduct and mental health. This research supports creating more effective support systems within sports.

Sports injury research is critical for understanding and preventing injuries, focusing on biomechanics, injury patterns, and rehabilitation strategies. This research ensures athletes recover fully and safely, minimizing re-injury risks while addressing the psychological impacts of injuries.