Kenya prepares for 2029 World Athletics Championships

Kenya is preparing to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, marking the first time the event will be held on African soil. During a meeting in Nairobi, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe and Kenyan President William Ruto discussed the necessary preparations, focusing on anti-doping efforts, funding, and infrastructure.

Sebastian Coe noted that while progress has been made in combating doping in Kenya, significant work remains. He highlighted that the creation of the independent Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) has strengthened the sport’s ability to conduct intense, intelligence-led testing. Since 2017, more than 140 Kenyan athletes have faced sanctions for doping offenses.

President Ruto pledged government support to meet the event's obligations, specifically regarding funding and stadium upgrades. He announced that the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, is currently undergoing improvements for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and will receive further upgrades to meet global athletics standards for the 2029 championships.