Mwelekeo TV recently aired an important discussion on safeguarding in sports, bringing together David Mulo and host Lilian Maina.
The conversation focused on how children and young people can be protected in sports programs, especially at the community and youth levels.
David Mulo, who works with Green Kenya, shared practical lessons from his experience of using sports as a tool for positive growth.
Safeguarding in sports means taking clear and daily action to protect children and vulnerable people from harm. It is not only about having written policies. It requires real steps such as checking the background of coaches and staff to ensure they have no criminal records, especially related to child abuse.
Programs that serve children between the ages of 5 and 18 must provide safe playing areas, trained adults in charge, and activities that match a child’s age and stage of development.
Sports can help young people grow in many ways. They build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills. Children also learn respect for others and responsibility.
However, only a small number of young athletes will become professionals. The main goal of youth sports should be overall development, not just winning matches.
When the focus is only on results, children can be pushed too hard, which may affect their physical and mental health.
The discussion also explained that sports can carry risks if not managed well. There is a clear power difference between coaches and young players. Coaches have authority, and children may feel they must obey without question.
This situation can create room for abuse if there are no proper safeguards. Some children may stay silent because they fear losing their position on the team or missing future opportunities.
Abuse in sports can take different forms. Physical harm may happen through harsh training methods or unnecessary force.
Emotional harm can include insults, threats, or making a child feel worthless. Neglect may involve failing to provide water during hot training sessions or ignoring injuries.
The most serious form is sexual abuse. There are also harmful practices that some people treat as normal, such as over-training young children or using equipment that is too heavy for their age.
Over time, such practices can cause lasting damage. Children may show warning signs when something is wrong.
These signs can include unexplained injuries, sudden changes in behavior, fear of certain adults, or withdrawing from friends. Many cases go unreported because children feel ashamed, guilty, or afraid of not being believed.
Creating safe spaces requires effort from everyone. Coaches should set clear boundaries, including proper communication channels and transparent rules.
Parents should ask questions about safeguarding policies and know how to report concerns.
Sports organizations must have clear reporting systems and take action when issues arise. Safety should be a basic part of every sports program. When adults commit to protecting children, sports can remain a positive space where young people grow, learn, and feel secure.
