Athletics Kenya Youth Development Committee chair Barnaba Korir has hailed the Kids’ Athletics programme as a powerful national launchpad for the country’s next generation of champions.
His
remarks come as Kenya joins the rest of the world in marking Kids’
Athletics Day 2025 on May 7, under the theme “Relay Around the World.”
Since
the global campaign kicked off on April 7, AK has rolled out more than
20 activations nationwide from bustling urban hubs to far-flung
villages, bringing athletics closer to the grassroots.
Over
15,000 children have laced up for fun-filled and high-energy activities
including Formula 1 sprints, sack races, shuttle relays, tire tunnel
runs, hula hoop battles and rope skipping — all designed to spark
interest in track and field while nurturing long-term talent.
Korir
noted that the Kids Athletics offers a perfect platform to teach the
children important values including teamwork and discipline.
“Kids’
Athletics has become a national platform for unearthing talent,
building communities, and teaching values such as teamwork, discipline
and environmental responsibility,” Korir said.
The nationwide campaign wraps up today with major events in Makueni and Elgeyo Marakwet counties. Beyond the lanes and finish lines, the initiative has further championed environmental consciousness.
Each
event has featured a symbolic tree-planting exercise, merging sport
with sustainability in a way that’s struck a chord with local
communities. “We are not just grooming future champions; we are raising responsible, eco-conscious citizens,” Korir added.
“This unique mix of sport and sustainability is something we hope to see replicated widely.”
Educators have praised the programme’s inclusive and playful approach to introducing children to athletics. "Normally,
athletic events focus on older or elite competitors while children are
left out. This programme allows our youngest learners to engage in
sports in a fun and educational way," he said.
The
initiative is part of a global drive by World Athletics to unite
children through sport, which will culminate in a kids’ relay event set
for later this year in Guangzhou, China.
