Kenya backs grassroots talent pipeline as focus shifts to LA 2028 Olympics

Following the Commonwealth Youth Games in Glasgow and the ongoing World Athletics U20 Championships in Oregon, USA, the government says Kenya is well placed to assemble a strong Team Kenya well ahead of the LA 2028 Games.

Speaking in Oregon during the 21st World Athletics U20 Championships, Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi said Kenya's recent medal success is the result of deliberate, long-term investment in athlete development rather than chance.

Kenya made an impressive start to the championships, winning three medals, including gold, on the opening day at Hayward Field on Wednesday.

World Under-20 cross-country champion Frankline Kibet led a Kenyan one-two in the men's 5,000m, claiming his first global track title in 13:28.27 to retain the title won by Kenya in 2024.

Compatriot Nehemiah Kipng'eno secured silver in 13:30.09, while Joyline Chepkemoi claimed bronze in the women's 5,000m with a personal best of 15:09.08, taking Kenya's medal tally to three.

Mwangi said the government is prioritising investment in sports infrastructure and sustained grassroots development to secure Kenya's long-term success.

"The gold, silver and bronze medals we have won here are the product of sustained investment in athletics. This government is deliberate about developing the right infrastructure for our sportsmen and sportswomen," he said.

He said the government, working with Athletics Kenya and school sports programmes, identifies promising athletes at an early stage before placing them in structured development pathways.

"Athletics Kenya has established holiday training camps across the country. They also use national championships and school games to identify talent. Once identified, continuous training is what strengthens these athletes and helps them realise their potential," Mwangi said.

He added that sustained development through sports academies is vital in bridging the gap between junior and senior competition, ensuring a smooth transition as established athletes retire.

Mwangi also reaffirmed the government's enhanced cash reward scheme for junior medal winners, saying sport must provide viable career opportunities for young people.

"His Excellency the President has directed that athletes who win individual medals will receive KSh2 million for gold, KSh1.5 million for silver and KSh1 million for bronze," he said.

"This gives our young men and women the opportunity to earn a livelihood from their talent, provided it is properly nurtured."

Mwangi urged the young athletes to remain disciplined as they progress from junior champions to future Olympic contenders.

Kenya's performances at the World Athletics U20 Championships have reinforced confidence in the country's next generation of stars, with the emerging athletes expected to play a leading role in sustaining Kenya's global dominance in athletics in the years ahead.