Team Kenya eyes future success after Commonwealth mixed fortunes

Speaking upon arrival at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Wednesday, the athletes reflected on Kenya’s campaign at the Games, where Kenya placed 13th overall with 12 medals across athletics and other disciplines.

Kipsang, who won gold in the men’s 5,000 metres, said reclaiming the Commonwealth title was the result of collective effort, crediting teammates Cornelius Kemboi and Almisi for helping him navigate one of the toughest races of the championships.

“We went and fought until we brought back the 5,000m medal for Kenya, which had taken a long time without us having it,” Kipsang said.

He said the trio constantly motivated one another throughout the competition, adding that the mental support they shared proved just as important as their physical preparation.

“I also thank my colleagues, Cornelius Kemboi and Almisi, for playing a big role. In the field, we helped each other mentally and pushed ourselves until we came back with it. Next time is theirs and I will support them,” he added.

While celebrating Kenya’s performance, men’s 10,000 metres race walk silver medalist Stephen Ndangili said the Games also underscored the growing strength of international competition, noting that countries traditionally behind Kenya continue to close the gap.

“The world out there has caught up with us; it is tough. It wasn’t easy but we thank God for where we are right now,” said Ndangili, who also acknowledged the support of his family, coach, manager and the Ministry of Sports.

His remarks reflect the increasing competitiveness of global athletics, with more nations investing in athlete development, high-performance training and sports science, making major championships more competitive than ever.

Men’s 800 metres bronze medallist Wycliff Kinyamal, who was competing at his third Commonwealth Games, also expressed gratitude to his coaches, management and the National Police Service for their support throughout his preparations.

Receiving the athletes on behalf of Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya, Sports Arts and Social Development Fund Board Chair George Kithi congratulated Team Kenya for its performances, saying the Glasgow campaign had highlighted both experienced athletes and emerging talent.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in athlete welfare, talent development and creating an environment that enables Kenyan sportsmen and women to compete successfully on the international stage.

For the athletes, however, the message from Glasgow was clear: teamwork remains one of Kenya’s greatest strengths, but staying among the world’s athletics elite will require continued improvement as competition intensifies.