Kenya eyes 2029 World Athletics Championships hosting rights

Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Kipchumba Murkomen (left) during his visit at Athletics Kenya headquarters in Nairobi on November 6, 2024 [Twitter]

Kenya has officially submitted a bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, aiming to become the first African nation to hold the prestigious event.

The announcement was made by Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Kipchumba Murkomen, on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

Murkomen highlighted Kenya’s commitment to delivering a world-class experience by addressing infrastructure concerns and upgrading sports venues.

As a ministry, we are channelling resources to the grassroots for the development of young talent. One of our key partners in this initiative is the Athletics Kenya.

This year, we're supporting Athletics Kenya to roll out an enhanced holiday youth training camps program across… pic.twitter.com/aC2N7U0kni — KIPCHUMBA MURKOMEN, E.G.H (@kipmurkomen) November 6, 2024

“We are determined to put up modern facilities. We have the resources, and we are capable,” Murkomen stated after touring Athletics Kenya (AK) headquarters in Nairobi.

Kenya’s previous attempt to host the 2025 World Athletics Championships fell short due to infrastructure limitations. This time, Murkomen assured, the government is focused on avoiding past missteps by working closely with World Athletics experts.

Renovation efforts are in full swing at the Moi International Sports Centre (MISC), Kasarani, and Nyayo National Stadium, with expectations to complete the work before the African Nations Championships (CHAN), which Kenya will co-host with Tanzania and Uganda in February 2024.

AK President Jack Tuwei, who oversees Kenya’s bid, confirmed that the application was submitted in August and accepted by World Athletics. A team led by legendary long-distance runner Ibrahim Hussein has been tasked with ensuring the bid’s success.

Should Kenya succeed, the 2029 World Athletics Championships would mark the first time an African country hosts the event.