Kenya bolsters youth talent development to maintain athletics dominance

By Robert Mutasi

Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Arts and Creative Economy Kipchumba Murkomen said the country is still committed to developing young athletics talents to ensure it continues dominating.

Speaking on Friday, Murkomen emphasized that athletics is key to improving Kenya's global profile and catching thorough international media attention.

"Athletics dominance remains one of the biggest avenues for marketing our country. The amount of media coverage accorded to our flag and country in some of the biggest broadcasting platforms in the world is worth a lot," he said.

Murkomen emphasized that for such status to be maintained, there was a need to make strategic investments in the development of the country's youth talent.

The Cabinet Secretary praised and celebrated the great performance of Kenyan athletes who have lately been doing wonders in the international arena.

They were joined by medal winners from the just-concluded 2024 World Athletics U-20 Championships, Chicago Marathon, and New York Marathon.

He commended them in their effort to place Kenya on the world sports map and wished them continued success in future events.

Murkomen also mentioned the continued engagement with Athletics Kenya to improve the conditions and facilities for the development and welfare of the athletes.

This involves upgrading various high-altitude training centers in Nyahururu, Ngong, and Keringet in partnership with the devolved governments.

"These engagements will ensure that our athletes are offered world-class environments for training, which will finally equip them to compete at the top level internationally," Murkomen added.

The Cabinet Secretary professed optimism for future performances by Kenya in coming international events, including the next World Athletics U-20 Championships and the Olympics.

He said these new developments were inspired by initiatives such as improved youth training camps and clinics conducted by the Kenya Academy of Sports in liaison with Athletics Kenya.

Murkomen's statement shows the greater dimension of government strategy to ensure Kenya cements its place as the leader in athletics while bringing up future champions.

The moves are intended to build on the country's rich legacy in the sport and ensure that athletes continue to inspire worldwide audiences, bringing pride to the nation.