Africa 100 metres record holder Ferdinand Omanyala is relishing the prospect of competing at the 2029 World Athletics Championships on home soil in Nairobi.
Nairobi was awarded the championships on September 15, 2026, becoming the first African city to host the global athletics event. The championships are scheduled for September 2029, with the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, set to be the main venue.
Omanyala, who thrives in front of Kenyan fans, won the 100 metres at this year’s Kip Keino Classic in 9.96 seconds.
The sprinter said competing in front of a home crowd gives him excitement rather than pressure as he looks ahead to the championships.
“I don’t feel any pressure. I mean competing at home is always a privilege and one thing about me is there’s always a level of excitement and adrenaline rush that comes with competing at home,” Omanyala said.
“Not that all my best performances are here, but most of them are in Kenya and preparation starts now.”
Omanyala also welcomed the ongoing work at Kasarani, saying the stadium can provide the facilities required for a major global championship.
“There’s an overhaul of construction going on and an upgrade as well. So that gives us a better chance to host even better championships. Definitely Kasarani has everything it takes, it has all it takes.”
Omanyala added that he expects World Athletics and other stakeholders to support Kenya’s preparations for the event.
Former marathon world record holder Patrick Makau also called for early preparations as Kenya targets a strong performance on home soil.
“Kenya is a powerhouse, especially when it comes to athletics. They haven’t come to beat us while we are in our own country. We can make sure we defend all the titles. So, thank you very much, World Athletics,” Makau said.
Ethiopian athletics legend Haile Gebrselassie welcomed the decision to bring the championships to Africa for the first time.
“World Athletics Championship has come to African soil for the first time. It’s wonderful news. I’m so proud that Nairobi, Kenya has been awarded this championship,” Gebrselassie said.
He thanked those who supported Nairobi’s successful bid.
Kenya has previously hosted major global athletics competitions, including the 2017 World Under-18 Championships and the 2021 World Under-20 Championships in Nairobi.
With the 2029 championships now secured, attention will turn to preparations at Kasarani and Kenya’s athletes as the country builds towards hosting the global event.
