Kenya has formally submitted its bid to host the World Athletics Championships 2029 and 2031 at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in Nairobi, a bold historic step that would bring the global athletics showpiece to African soil for the very first time.
Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, confirmed that Kenya has already commenced pre-qualification procedures with World Athletics, joining a strong field of contenders that includes Ethiopia, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, South Korea, and India.
Drawing on Kenya’s unmatched athletics heritage, CS Mvurya said the country’s record of producing world champions gives it a strong edge.
“Kenya’s story in athletics is unrivalled on the African continent. Our athletes have flown the national flag with pride and broken records across generations. Hosting the Championships would be a natural progression of that legacy.”
While in Tokyo, Japan, during discussions with World Athletics President Lord Sebastian Coe, the CS emphasized that the bid is not merely aspirational but a carefully structured national strategy anchored on strong leadership and clear vision.
“This bid is supported at the highest level of government, reflecting President William Ruto’s vision to position Kenya as a global sporting powerhouse. This is a national project, and our commitment is absolute.”
Reflecting on Kenya’s past attempts to host major global events, CS Mvurya noted that the country has previously come close to securing international hosting rights, the closest Africa has ever been. He emphasized that lessons drawn from those efforts are now shaping and strengthening the current bid, “Africa deserves its moment. Kenya came close before, but today we present an even stronger case built on world-class facilities, government commitment, and our unmatched athletics tradition.”
The CS pointed to Kenya’s recent success in hosting the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) as proof of the country’s readiness. The tournament, he said, demonstrated Kenya’s ability to stage continental competitions while aligning with international benchmarks.
He further highlighted the ongoing infrastructure upgrades at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and the Nyayo National Stadium, including the installation of synthetic running tracks and modernization of stadia, as clear evidence of preparedness.
“The refurbishments of Kasarani and Nyayo stadia are not just about facilities, they are about creating a modern sports ecosystem. From world-class running tracks to upgraded training centres, Kenya is positioning itself to deliver venues that meet and even exceed global standards,” CS Mvurya said.
CS Mvurya also met with Team Kenya athletes competing at the ongoing World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (2025), commending them for their outstanding performances that have so far placed Kenya second on the medal table with 4 gold, 1 silver, and 2 bronze.
He praised their resilience and consistency, reminding them that their success isa source of national pride and a signal to the world of Kenya’s sporting excellence. “You have been winning, you have been making us proud, and the world is noticing. Our current standing at the Championships shows that Kenya is firmly among the top nations. As you approach the remaining events, remain focused and keep pushing, because every victory strengthens our confidence and underscores why Kenya is ready to bring the World Athletics Championships to Africa” he concluded.
