In a historic decision that has been celebrated across the continent, World Athletics has selected Nairobi, Kenya, to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, marking the first time the prestigious event will be held on African soil. The Kenyan capital triumphed over strong bids from London, Rome, and Munich, with the championships set to take place at the newly renovated Kasarani Stadium.
The announcement was made by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, who described the Kenyan proposal as “compelling and historic.” Coe praised Kenya’s rich athletics heritage, noting that the East African nation ranks second on the all-time medal table for the World Championships and delivered a standout performance at the Tokyo 2025 edition. “Africa has waited long enough for this moment,” Coe said. “Nairobi is ready, and the world will be watching.”
Kenyan President William Ruto hailed the decision as a “monumental achievement” for the nation and the continent, pledging that the government would invest in infrastructure, security, and logistics to ensure a world-class event. “This is not just about Kenya; it is about Africa showcasing its talent, its hospitality, and its capacity to host the world,” Ruto said.
The announcement sparked celebrations across Kenya, with athletes, officials, and fans expressing pride in the country’s growing stature on the global sporting stage. However, reactions were not uniformly euphoric. Some observers have raised concerns about security, transportation, and the readiness of facilities, calling for thorough planning and accountability to avoid the pitfalls that have marred major events elsewhere.
Munich was confirmed as the host of the 2031 edition, ensuring a continued presence of world-class athletics in Europe. For now, however, the spotlight is firmly on Nairobi, where the dream of hosting the world’s best athletes is set to become a reality. The 2029 Championships will not only be a sporting spectacle but a statement: that Africa is no longer just a producer of champions, but a stage for them to shine.
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