President William Ruto has announced plans for additional upgrades to Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, as Kenya prepares to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
Ruto made the announcement after meeting World Athletics President Sebastian Coe at Eldoret State Lodge, where they discussed preparations for the global competition, which will be held in Africa for the first time.
The President noted that Kasarani Stadium is already undergoing major renovations ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), adding that further improvements would be undertaken to ensure the facility meets the requirements for the athletics championships.
“The Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Stadium is already undergoing major improvements for AFCON 2027, and will further be improved for the World Athletics Championships 2029,” Ruto said.
The meeting also addressed three key obligations Kenya must fulfil to successfully host the competition: adequate funding, a commitment to anti-doping measures and preparations to ensure the stadium is ready.
On financing, Ruto pledged that the government would provide the resources required to organise the championships. He also assured Coe that the necessary measures would be taken to prepare Kasarani Stadium for the international event.
“All of the required obligations will be met,” Ruto said, reaffirming his administration's commitment to providing the resources needed to deliver a successful championship.
Coe welcomed the President's assurances, noting that hosting the competition in Nairobi presented an opportunity to accelerate the development of athletics in Kenya and across Africa.
The World Athletics president also urged Kenyans to turn out in large numbers throughout the championships, saying a packed stadium would create an exciting atmosphere for athletes.
“I call upon Kenya to uphold its stellar reputation for turning out in large numbers for our sport by having a sold-out stadium every night to create an electric atmosphere for our athletes,” Coe said.
Nairobi Beats London, Rome and Munich
Nairobi secured the hosting rights for the 2029 World Athletics Championships on September 15, 2026, beating competing bids from London, Rome and Munich in a closely contested selection process.
The decision marked a historic milestone for Kenya and the continent, with Nairobi set to become the first African city to host the prestigious global athletics competition.
Kenya's successful bid builds on its experience in organising major international athletics events, including the 2017 World Under-18 Championships, the 2021 World Under-20 Championships and the annual Kip Keino Classic.
The country also has a strong reputation in international athletics, particularly in distance running, with Kenyan athletes consistently competing at the highest levels of the sport.
The 2029 championships will follow the 2027 edition in Beijing, China, while Munich, Germany, is scheduled to host the 2031 competition.
With the tournament expected to bring together elite athletes from across the world, Kenya's preparations will focus on meeting the required hosting standards, including stadium readiness, financing and anti-doping compliance.
