Barnabas Korir expresses confidence in Kenya’s capacity to host global athletics events
By Luke Oluoch, May 2, 2026Barnabas Korir, Athletics Kenya Youth Development Director, has expressed confidence that the African continent can take up the mantle and successfully host major upcoming global athletic events following Botswana’s success.
Speaking in Botswana’s capital, Gaborone, on Saturday, May 2, 2026, the Athletics Kenya official maintained that hosting the World Athletics Relays—dubbed the Debswana World Athletics Relays Gaborone 26—is a major milestone and a blessing that showcases the continent’s athletic might.
Africa’s milestone
“This is the first time the World Relays have come to Africa. This is an important event for the continent. There is a lot of interest from European countries in having more competitions held in Africa,” he stated.
“It shows there is capacity for African countries to host. We must work with our governments so that when we bid for major events, the world can see our readiness, whether it is Kenya or South Africa,” he added.
Kenya’s bid for future events
While Kenya has bid to host future editions of the World Athletics Championships (WAC), Korir emphasised the need to meet the benchmarks set by other countries in organising world-class events. He noted that Kenya and others can equally host World Athletics races provided there is proper organisation and strong government support.
“We are looking forward to bidding to host the WAC in Kenya, but it depends on our organizational standards and the image we project. We must deliver spectacular events and demonstrate our readiness practically,” he added.
Relays’ build-up
The Relays roared to life on Friday, May 1, 2026, with a dazzling opening ceremony at the University of Botswana’s Indoor Sports Complex.
While officially opening the event, President Duma Boko declared it a “historic moment” for Botswana, marking the first time it has been held on African soil. He called the hosting rights “a bold statement that Africa is capable of hosting the world.”
Invoking the Setswana principle of shared humanity, President Boko urged Batswana to “showcase the spirit of Botho and be the most welcoming hosts the world has ever seen.”
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe offered heartfelt thanks for Botswana’s warmth and praised the support of local sponsors. Coe also highlighted that the Kids Project, inspired by Olympic hero Letsile Tebogo, will form a lasting legacy of these relays.
Over 700 athletes from 40 countries, including Kenya’s relay team led by Ferdinand Omanyala, are among the sportsmen and sprinters carrying the hopes of their nations in this two-day event of riveting action and relay glory.