Cs Murkomen pledges more funding for AK camps, backs Kenya's 2029 World Championships bid

In a bold move to bolster Kenya’s global standing in athletics, Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has announced plans to triple the budget allocation for Athletics Kenya (AK) camps, with a focus on developing multi-discipline talent for major international events.

Speaking during his visit to Athletics Kenya's headquarters at Riadha House in Nairobi on Wednesday, Murkomen emphasized the ministry’s commitment to nurturing youth talent across the nation, including marginalized areas such as the Coast and North Eastern regions.

"Key for us in the ministry is grassroots youth development. We are determined to expand youth training camps nationwide," Murkomen said.

"I hope that underrepresented regions will be included, bringing diverse talent to our national athletic community."

He underscored the significance of AK academies in reclaiming Kenya's dominance in athletics, noting recent gains made through youth training initiatives.

“In the last two or three years, our youth camps have helped us reclaim some of the athletic disciplines we had lost,” he said.

He also praised Athletics Kenya for its crucial role in nurturing athletes and contributing to Kenya's global sports achievements.

"I am genuinely impressed by the progress AK has made. This federation is an essential partner for us, especially in light of Kenya's performance on the international stage," Murkomen added.

Murkomen also voiced his full support for Athletics Kenya's bid to host the 2029 World Championships.

Athletics Kenya (AK) President Jack Tuwei expressed gratitude for the government’s backing, noting Kenya's ambition to become the first African nation to host the event.

"We are honored to have the government's encouragement. It would be a historic milestone for Kenya to host the World Championships," Tuwei said, acknowledging the significant financial and infrastructural requirements involved.

Murkomen assured the nation that Kasarani Stadium, a key venue, will be ready to host major events by next year.

“We’re focused on ensuring our major stadiums meet global standards to host major events in the near future,” he stated.

Murkomen also assured that the government has increased funding to support the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK) through the Sports Fund, softening the blow of recent budget cuts.

“We have set up contingency measures to reinforce ADAK's budget while awaiting the formal budgeting process,” said Murkomen. 

"We are working together with the ministry of finance and parliament to enhance their budget in the next supplementary budget," he added.

Murkomen noted he had fruitful talks with WADA president Witold Banka on Kenya's progress in fighting doping.