A 2025 survey by Aga Khan University and its partners has revealed that coaches are the most notorious perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in sports.
The study, which focused on athletes and sports professionals across East Africa, found that many survivors experienced abuse from figures in authority, particularly male coaches.
The report highlights a troubling culture of silence and lack of accountability, with victims often fearing retaliation or career loss.
It calls for urgent reforms, including mandatory safeguarding training, independent reporting mechanisms, and stronger policies to protect athletes—especially women and girls—from abuse in East Africa's sports environment
