Nairobi, Tuesday
Preparations for the 2029 World Athletics Championships in Nairobi have officially commenced following the arrival of Pierce O’Callaghan, the Head of Competition Management at World Athletics. O'Callaghan is scheduled to conduct a vital initial inspection of the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, which will serve as the centerpiece venue for the global sporting event.
The technical inspection follows a high-level briefing where Kenya's Sports Principal Secretary, Elijah Mwangi, met with Athletics Kenya officials and the 2029 Bid Committee – led by Athletics Kenya President Jackson Tuwei - to establish the logistical and operational frameworks for the historic event.
Mwangi emphasized that early preparation is vital, stating, “Early and sustained engagement with key stakeholders is critical to delivering a championship of this magnitude.”
He noted that the initial strategy is already underway, adding that “our engagement focused on the key pillars and priority area of delivery, including stakeholder coordination, logistical planning, venue readiness and the establishment of clear frameworks to guide preparations.”
Pierce O’Callaghan, the Head of Competition Management at World Athletics with Athletics Kenya's Barnaba Korir during the World Under-20 Championships at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, last month. O’Callaghan is expected to inspect facilities for Nairobi's hosting of the 2029 World Athletics Championships. (Photo / Courtesy)
Kenya plans to leverage its ongoing infrastructure projects to meet strict international standards. Because Kasarani Stadium is already undergoing major renovations ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the government will collaborate with athletic officials to integrate any additional World Athletics requirements directly into the active construction.
Mwangi explained that “the Government will work closely with Athletics Kenya and World Athletics officials to inspect the facility and identify any additional requirements that can be incorporated into the ongoing works,” a strategy that “will ensure that once completed, Kasarani is fully positioned to meet the standards required for the 2029 World Athletics Championships.”
Furthermore, technical teams will inspect and provide recommendations for Nyayo National Stadium and the Ulinzi Sports Complex, both of which have been selected as official training facilities.
Expressing full confidence in the nation's abilities, Mwangi declared that “Kenya has the experience, infrastructure, talent and institutional capacity to deliver this historic event successfully.” He reaffirmed the government's commitment to delivering a flawless event, concluding that “the Government will continue working closely with Athletics Kenya, World Athletics and all relevant stakeholders to ensure that Nairobi 2029 is meticulously planned and delivers a truly world-class championship worthy of Kenya’s sporting heritage and Africa’s historic moment.”
