The government has reiterated its commitment to host a world-class World Athletics Championships in Nairobi in 2029 stating that the country has the capacity and resources required to host such a global sporting event.
Speaking on Thursday, October 1, 2026 when hosting the World Athletics Head of Competition Management Mr. Pierce O’Callaghan, the Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi said Kenya was inordinately proud to have won the competitive bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
He stated that the country was ready to host this historic event as he assured the World Athletics officials of full government backing towards supporting the successful execution of this event.
The PS added that the government would work closely with the World Athletics Team and officials to ensure that the facilities earmarked for the competition were fully compliant with the highest standards required for such a top-tier competition.
“As a country, we are very proud and honored to have won the bid. We have the resources and capacity to deliver a world-class event in Nairobi. We will work closely with world Athletics to ensure we comply fully with infrastructural as well as other requirements towards this event,” he said.
On his part, Mr. O’Callaghan congratulated Kenya for winning the 2029 bid stating that the World Athletics is confident Nairobi would deliver a memorable event.
He said that the 2029 World Championships would have over 210 countries participating in a competition that will take 10 days. He expressed optimism that this global event in Nairobi will become part of the social-economic life for millions in the city.
“We want every man, woman and child to be and feel part of this historic event whether it’s through being volunteers or participating by purchasing tickets to the event,” he said.
He also said Kenyans will have the opportunity to participate in the event through watching the Marathon that will be run through the streets of Nairobi.
He also pledged technical support to Kenya to ensure that the country’s facilities were ready and compliant with the world athletics championships.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from Athletics Kenya led by First Vice President Barnabas Korir, Director General Sports Kenya Timothy Kilimo and officials from the State Department for Sports.
