Stakeholders from across the Eastern region have called for increased funding, equitable representation, and greater youth inclusion during the Athletics Kenya (AK) public participation forum held at the AK Kinoru Stadium in Meru County. The gathering was part of a 12-day nationwide exercise aimed at aligning the federation’s constitution with the Sports Act, 2013.
The forum brought together athletes, coaches, officials, and athletics enthusiasts from Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, Marsabit, and Embu counties, giving them a platform to raise issues affecting the development and governance of athletics at both regional and national levels.
A key concern among participants was the need for increased allocation of funds to county and national athletics programs. Stakeholders argued that adequate funding is essential for smooth operations, structured competitions, and effective talent development.
Mburugu Remmy, Chairman of AK Buuri Constituency, stressed the importance of investing in grassroots development.
“We need more money channeled to athletics so we can identify and develop more talent from the grassroots,” he noted.
Athletics supporter Jumale Agha echoed this sentiment, urging AK to broaden its financial policies to ensure fair distribution of resources.
“The current financial policies need to be widened so that more areas can benefit fairly,” he said.
Calls for youth inclusion in leadership also featured prominently. Mercy Kendi emphasized the need to empower young people early to ensure continuity in athletics governance.
“We need to train and involve Gen Z now so they can confidently take the mantle and carry athletics forward,” she said.
On doping matters, AK Eastern Region Secretary Abdi Kadir proposed better assessment mechanisms to avoid unfair exclusion of athletes while safeguarding integrity in competitions.
The forum also saw heated debate on elections and representation, with stakeholders demanding fairness and balanced county representation to prevent overconcentration of power.
AK officials assured participants that all views will be considered in the final constitutional amendments.
