Korir Urges Government to Fast-Track Stadia Renovation Ahead of Kip Keino Classic
JOSPHAT KEBUT
Kip Keino Classic Meet Director who is also the Athletics Kenya Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir has urged the government to expedite stadium renovations to prevent the possible cancellation of the 2025 Absa Kip Keino Classic.
“For the event to take place, we need to have the stadium ready. If renovations are delayed, we risk losing this prestigious event,” Korir emphasized.
The sixth edition of the Absa Kip Keino Classic Continental Tour is scheduled for May 31, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. As one of the most prestigious athletics events in the region, it draws top-tier talent from Kenya and across the globe.
Korir highlighted the need for political goodwill to ensure the success of sports in the country.
“Leaders like Deputy Speaker Gladys Shollei can serve as a bridge between sports and political leadership. They can help accelerate solutions to issues affecting the sport, such as stadium renovations, which are critical for hosting international events like the Kip Keino Classic.”
Uasin Gishu Woman Representative Gladys Shollei reassured the sports fraternity of the government’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure.
“We prioritized stadium renovations in the supplementary budget because we know we have key events like CHAN and AFCON, stadiums like Kipchoge, Talanta, and Kasarani are coming out well. Additionally, we allocated extra funds for anti-doping initiatives. We also need a local lab to provide athletes with faster test results and a fair chance to challenge them.”
She further urged counties to make efficient use of their sports budgets. “Counties should invest in meaningful sports events that provide athletes with opportunities to showcase their talents and grow.”
Korir and Shollei were speaking on Kass Le Nee Emet on Thursday while giving an update on the upcoming Eldoret City Marathon.
