Kenya: Pride and Joy As Kenya Chosen to Host 2029 World Athletics Championships

Athletics enthusiasts in Kenya are celebrating the nation's selection to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, marking the first time an African city will stage the event. World Athletics announced its decision on Tuesday during a meeting in Budapest, choosing Nairobi over London, Rome, and Munich, with the German city receiving the 2031 championships instead.

Kenyan officials praised the choice, recognizing the country's status as a powerhouse in the sport. Nairobi's President Shadrack Maluki stated that the selection reflects the nation's rich athletics heritage and the exceptional talent of Kenyan athletes. Record holder Ferdinand Omanyala expressed his elation, stating it's a dream come true to compete at home and run best at home.

Young athlete Amanu Manieki described the news as exciting, signaling a shift putting Africa on the international stage. Kenyan Athletics Federation has 12,000 registered members, with more runners implied, and the Kenyan government has allocated a budget of 45 billion shillings, or over €300 million, for sports during the 2026-2027 fiscal year.

However, the news of hosting the championships has also brought attention to Kenya's past doping issues, with more than 140 Kenyan athletes suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit since 2017. Ethiopian track and marathon legend Haile Gebrselassie expressed pride in Nairobi's selection, acknowledging the country's deep problems with doping despite the athletes' achievements on the track.