Africa Athletics Championships equipment delayed

By Mutwiri Mutuota

A Treasury official is frustrating efforts by Local Organising Committee (LOC) to clear equipment meant for the 17th Africa Athletics Championships from the port of Mombasa.

The startling revelations that come just under a month to the opening ceremony were made by a visibly upset LOC chief executive, David Okeyo, who claimed the continental championships could be run without a warm-up track.

"It is shameful that some people are not seeing the urgency of this event. Somebody at the Treasury has refused to release the letters of duty waiver for equipment that is already in the country, despite the fact that we have a Cabinet Memo authorising the same and we cannot explain why.

"I will not disclose the name of the individual, but will do so in due course if something is not done. The Sports Permanent Secretary is aware that our clearing agent has spent days at the Treasury and this is really annoying," Okeyo charged.

Efforts Frustrated

The CEO added it was time Kenyans knew the truth behind delays in clearing the equipment that arrived last week (tartan track) and a month ago (electronic timing) as he exonerated the LOC from blame.

"This particular officer, since it is not the entire Finance Ministry, is frustrating our efforts to clear the equipment for reasons best known to him, despite our efforts to fast track their procurement and shipping," Okeyo went on.

Technicians from Italian firm, Mondo, were due in the country yesterday to lay the tartan track for the warm-up area, but it is yet to be cleared from the Port of Mombasa.

Awkward Situation

"I do not know what to tell them when they come since they have paid for their own transport and accommodation and they need two weeks to complete their job. Without the heavy material here, it will be impossible for them to complete their work before the championships," the CEO noted.

Timetronics equipment arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport a month ago.

Meanwhile, Athletics Kenya (AK) has appointed veteran sprints trainer, Stephen Mwaniki as head coach of the Kenyan team for the July 28 to August 1 event. Okeyo, who is also AK Secretary General, said Mwaniki would lead a team of 13 coaches who will manage the 142 strong squad named on Saturday.

"This is a big team and three coaches will handle sprints, hurdles and relays, two middle distance, two long distance, two walk racing, two combined and two field events," he stated.

The team and their coaches will report on July 5 for a three-week training camp at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, where AK are making their accommodation arrangements.

Okeyo disclosed that some changes in the team, particularly in men’s Pole vault and women’s walking race would be announced.

"Some mistakes were made during selection at the Trials since this is a large team and coaches are coming up with recommendations," Okeyo added.