ANOCA expresses its immense pride and extends its warmest congratulations to H.E. William RUTO, President of the Republic of Kenya, his Government, senior officials and the people of Kenya on being awarded hosting rights for the 2029 World Athletics Championships.
The announcement was made following the 242nd World Athletics Council meeting in Budapest on 14 and 15 September 2026.
Reacting to the news, ANOCA President, IOC member and candidate for ANOC Presidency, Honourable Mustapha BERRAF, said:
“This is not just a victory for Kenya; it is a resounding success for all of Africa. The international community is expressing its confidence in a mature, organised and credible continent. Kenya will fly the flag for our 54 nations, and we will all stand by them to make this event a huge success. Africa is no longer waiting, it is on the move and ready to welcome the world.”
For the first time in the history of world sport, this flagship global event will be held on African soil.
This decision marks a decisive turning point for sport on the continent, and reflects the recognition by international sports bodies of Africa’s ability to host the most prestigious events on the global calendar.
The decision to entrust Kenya with this historic event is no coincidence. A land of legends, Kenya has written, decade after decade, some of the most glorious chapters of world athletics.
From its dirt tracks to its high-altitude training centres, this nation has offered the world exceptional champions whose achievements continue to inspire entire generations. This choice is therefore a well-deserved reward for an invaluable contribution to global sports heritage.
The second most decorated nation in the history of World Athletics Championships, Kenya will host the 2029 edition at the iconic 48,000-capacity Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi, which has previously hosted the World Athletics U20 Championships.
World Athletics President, Sebastian Coe, commending what he termed a compelling and emotional bid, said that “Nairobi has demonstrated emphatically that this is their moment to supercharge the development of our sport in Kenya and across Africa, leaving a compelling legacy that inspires a continent.”
He further noted that Kenya is one of the great nations in athletics, a sport deeply rooted in the country’s culture, with athletes like world gold medallists Faith Kipyegon, Vivian Cheruiyot, Eluid Kipchoge, Hellen Obiri and David Rudisha, as well as double Olympic champion Kip Keino, multi-world cross-country champion Paul Tergat and multi-world half-marathon champion Tegla Loroupe, who have made sports history.
ANOCA would like to pay a glowing tribute to His Excellency the President of the Republic of Kenya, who said:
“This is Kenya’s moment, Africa’s moment and a victory for generations of athletes who made our nation synonymous with excellence on the track, on the road and cross-country. We will honour that confidence by delivering an unforgettable championship worthy of our athletes, our country and our continent.”
This is a special tribute to the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) and the Athletics Federation for their leadership, vision and hard work, which have made this dream come true.
This award also reflects ANOCA’s unrelenting commitment to excellence. The continent is also preparing to host the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, from 31 October to 13 November 2026, another global win. Africa is gradually emerging as a powerhouse in international sport, a key and indispensable actor in the Olympic Movement and global sports.
ANOCA reaffirms its unwavering support for Kenyan sport and government authorities as they prepare for this major event in 2029.
ANOCA President, Honourable Mustapha BERRAF, therefore calls on “all African nations, continental partners and the continent’s youth to unite behind Kenya to celebrate this historic milestone and showcase to the world Africa’s strength, hospitality and unity.”
