The future of Kenyan athletics is in safe hands.

That was the bold message at Afraha Stadium where junior stars dazzled during the National Under-18 and Under-20 Trials.

From South Rift to Nyanza, Central and beyond, junior athletes showcased raw talent and promise, a result of years of structured training and strategic planning.

Athletics Kenya (AK) Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir said the performances at the Afraha Stadium trials are proof that the federation’s nationwide programmes are working.

“What we’re seeing is not by chance. It’s the result of deliberate, consistent investment in young people,” noted Korir.

“Our holiday camps, school partnerships and regional camps are allowing our youth to dream and succeed.”

Barnaba commended all regions for producing top performers but highlighted South Rift’s leading role, describing it as a key pillar in AK’s development model.

“This region continues to lead in both numbers and structure. South Rift has nine active camps, the most in any region, and remains a cornerstone of our efforts,” said Korir.

Reflecting on his own experience as an athlete in the same region in 1983 before receiving a US scholarship, Korir noted how far youth athletics have come.

“Back then, we didn’t have the kind of support our athletes enjoy today. Now, with better coaching, facilities, and access to education, we are shaping not just great athletes, but great people,” he added.

Korir also emphasised the importance of holistic development and went ahead to credit AK’s school-based holiday training camps for combining academics with athletics, a model that prepares athletes for life beyond the track.

“Our vision is to raise disciplined, educated, and focused athletes who can represent Kenya with pride.”

In 2024, Korir said AK’s collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and the Ministry of Education has enabled a smoother transition for young athletes from school into competitive sport.

With the expected completion of renovations at Afraha Stadium, Korir promised that more national events will be held in such upgraded venues to inspire and reach more talent at the grassroots level.

Similarly, Korir reaffirmed AK’s commitment to integrity and clean athletics warning, “We are capturing accurate biodata from a young age to curb age cheating and doping. No one should mislead our youth with shortcuts. The future of athletics must be clean, honest, and athlete-centred.”

He reiterated that the government-supported U-20 training camps remain a crucial part of AK’s long-term plan.

“These camps allow us to walk with the athlete through every step. They are central to our development strategy.”

Concluding his remarks, Korir expressed optimism and national pride stating that across Kenya “we are seeing brilliance emerge. These young athletes are the heartbeat of our future, and we have to guide them every step of the way”.