Kenya’s selection to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships is a major milestone not only for the country, but for the entire African continent.

The decision is a strong demonstration of Africa’s growing ability to host major international sporting events to global standards. Kenya won the hosting bid against wealthy cities with highly developed infrastructure, including London and Rome, highlighting the confidence placed in the country by World Athletics.

The decision also marks a historic breakthrough, 46 years after the World Athletics Championships were first launched in 1983. Kenya will become the first African country to host the prestigious global athletics championships.

Kenya had previously bid to host the 2025 edition but lost the opportunity to Japan. However, that setback did not mark the end of the journey. The government and sports stakeholders used the experience to learn, improve preparations and return to the bidding process with a stronger proposal — eventually securing the right to host the 2029 championships.

The championships are expected to take place at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, in Nairobi. The stadium, which has a capacity of more than 60,000 spectators, is currently undergoing major renovations and infrastructure upgrades to bring it in line with international standards.

Kenya’s infrastructure, transport and security systems will also get an important test when the country, together with Uganda and Tanzania, hosts the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

For Kenya, this achievement cannot be separated from its long and distinguished history in athletics. The country has built a global reputation through its world-class athletes, including marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, one of the faces that have come to symbolise Kenyan athletics around the world.

Kenya also has a strong record of success at major international competitions, with numerous medals at the World Championships and Olympic Games. Training centres such as Iten and Eldoret have become important hubs for athletics, attracting athletes from different parts of the world because of their high-altitude environment and deeply rooted running culture.

But the benefits of hosting the 2029 championships will extend far beyond the Kasarani stadium.

Thousands of fans, athletes, coaches, officials and visitors from around the world are expected to travel to Kenya, providing a major boost to the hospitality, transport, tourism, retail and other service sectors.

Visitors will also have an opportunity to experience Kenya beyond the athletics track — from its world-famous wildlife parks to the beaches of the Coast. The championships could therefore provide a major platform to market Kenya as a destination for sports, tourism and business across Africa and beyond.

Ultimately, the 2029 championships are about more than athletics. They represent an opportunity for Africa to demonstrate to the world its capacity, talent, infrastructure and expertise in hosting major international events.

From the home of champions to welcoming the world, Nairobi 2029 could mark a new chapter in the history of sport in Africa.