As the regional secondary school Term Two games head for the finish line this weekend, concerns over age cheating have surfaced again.
The Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) secretary general David Ngugi issued a stark warning of innovative methods by cheating cartels to evade strict measures against age fraud.
"We recognise that some complaints may be unfounded, which is why we have procedures to investigate before taking action against the accused," Ngugi said.
Allegations of cheating have raised doubts about the integrity of the competitions, particularly implicating teachers and coaches in questionable practices.
"We do not rely solely on appearances to judge age. Instead, we verify using documentation from the ministry that includes birth dates and examination records. When issues arise, we promptly investigate and follow through," Ngugi assured.
According to KSSSA, violations of age rules can result in severe disciplinary actions such as suspension or expulsion for both students and implicated staff members.
"In a positive stride, new disciplines like 3X3 Basketball and women's rugby have been introduced across East Africa, aiming to broaden the scope of school sports," he said.
Meanwhile, in the Nairobi region boys' football semifinals at Jamhuri High School, Hospital Hill clinched a decisive 3-1 victory over Lang'ata while Ruthimitu thrashed Ruaraka 3-0.
Ruaraka play Lang'ata in the third-place playoff while Hospital Hill have a date with Ruthimitu for a place in the national championships.
Hospital Hill coach Nicholas Matara expects a tough final match against a worthy opponent.
On their road to the semis, Hospital Hill thrashed Lenana 3-0 in the quarterfinals.
In the girl's football semifinal, Soweto beat Highridge 3-0 while Brownhill saw off State House Girls' 3-1.
Soweto face Brownhill for the top spot while Highridge battle State House Girls' for the bronze medal.
