Eastern Region Pushes for Fair Funding in Athletics Kenya
Athletics stakeholders from Meru, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, Isiolo, and Marsabit counties convened at Kinoru Stadium for the Athletics Kenya (AK) Constitutional Review Forum, calling for fair funding, youth inclusion, transparency, and equitable representation across the federation’s governance structures.
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| An athletics representative from Kenya’s Eastern region presents his views during the Athletics Kenya (AK) constitutional review forum held at Kinoru Stadium, Meru, on November 6, 2025. |
Stakeholders Convene at Kinoru Stadium for Constitutional Review
The Athletics Kenya (AK) Eastern region public participation forum at Kinoru Stadium in Meru County drew athletes, coaches, sports administrators, and fans from five counties—Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Isiolo, and Marsabit.
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Kinoru Stadium - Meru |
The discussions focused on critical governance gaps and the need to create a level playing field for all regions.
Delegates hailed AK for opening up the constitutional review process to the public, describing it as a progressive step toward building an inclusive and accountable sports institution.
According to local observers, the Eastern region has long been an untapped hub of talent. Yet, most promising athletes struggle with limited funding, inadequate facilities, and few opportunities to compete nationally. As one participant noted, “We have the raw potential; what we lack are the systems and resources to refine it.”
Demand for Increased Funding and Transparent Allocation
One of the most consistent demands during the forum was an increase in funding to regional athletics programs.
Stakeholders argued that without sufficient financial support, it is impossible to sustain training camps, local meets, and coaching development programs.
Mburugu Remmy, Chairman of AK Buuri Constituency, highlighted how many counties are forced to rely on volunteers or underfunded community clubs to keep athletes active.
“We need more money channeled to athletics so that we can identify and develop more talent from the grassroots. With the right funding, we can produce the next global champions right here in Meru and Marsabit.” — Mburugu Remmy
The participants proposed that Athletics Kenya establish a clear and equitable funding framework—based on measurable criteria such as population, athlete registration numbers, facility availability, and performance metrics.
They also emphasized the importance of financial transparency by publishing annual expenditure reports accessible to the public.
Revamping Financial Policies for Equitable Growth
Jumale Agha, an athletics enthusiast from Isiolo, criticized the existing funding model for leaving many counties behind. He called for a decentralization of sports funding and a direct county grant system that empowers regional associations to make independent decisions.
“The current financial policies need to be broadened so that more areas can benefit fairly. Every county deserves the resources to nurture its athletes,” — Jumale Agha
He proposed a tiered funding approach where counties with growing athletics participation receive incremental budget increases, encouraging competition and accountability.
This model, he explained, would not only promote fairness but also stimulate inter-county collaboration and innovation in talent scouting.
Youth Leadership and Succession Planning in Athletics Governance
The debate also turned to leadership succession. Many speakers agreed that involving youth in decision-making was essential for the sport’s continuity. Mercy Kendi, a prominent athletics advocate, urged AK to formalize youth engagement through mentorship programs and representation quotas in local committees.
“Once we retire from active leadership, the youth should be ready to take over from us. We must train and involve Gen Z now so that they can confidently carry athletics forward.” — Mercy Kendi
Participants proposed the formation of a Youth Leadership Council within AK’s structure to ensure that upcoming leaders are part of key policy discussions.
This council, they suggested, would also oversee youth empowerment workshops, digital innovation in sports management, and the integration of athletics into school programs.
Fairness and Integrity in Anti-Doping and Athlete Assessment
Integrity in athletics was another central theme. Abdi Kadir, AK Eastern Region Secretary, stressed the importance of fair athlete evaluation and transparent anti-doping enforcement. He cautioned against bias and discrimination during athlete selection, which can demoralize deserving participants and breed mistrust.
“Our athletes deserve to be assessed based on clear, consistent standards. Fairness must be the foundation of integrity in athletics.” — Abdi Kadir
Stakeholders called for the creation of regional Anti-Doping Education Units to train athletes, coaches, and managers on compliance requirements. They also recommended periodic integrity audits to ensure accountability at all competition levels.
Representation and Electoral Fairness in AK Leadership
One of the more heated sessions revolved around AK’s electoral framework. Delegates expressed concern over unequal representation—where some regions have more voting power than others.
To address this, participants proposed adopting a rotational leadership model to ensure that each region has an opportunity to lead and influence policy direction.
The suggested model envisions proportional delegate representation from every county, creating a more democratic system that values inclusivity and equality. Such a change, they argued, would enhance trust and cooperation within the federation.
Proposed Governance Structure for Fair Representation
This model ensures a bottom-up decision-making process, where feedback and proposals flow from community clubs to county associations, then to regional councils, and finally to the AK national executive. It embodies the “from the ground up” philosophy many stakeholders championed.
Implementation and Alignment with the Sports Act 2013
Participants repeatedly emphasized that AK’s constitutional reforms must align with the Sports Act 2013. This law requires federations to operate transparently, promote inclusivity, and maintain democratic systems of leadership.
The Eastern region delegates urged AK to make compliance measurable through annual reports, third-party evaluations, and open stakeholder forums.
They also called for stronger partnerships between AK, county governments, and private sponsors. Such collaborations, they said, would unlock new opportunities for building training centers, organizing regional tournaments, and funding athlete scholarships.
Unified Vision and Stakeholder Commitment
Despite differing opinions on specific clauses, participants agreed that the Eastern region must present a united front.
They pledged to work together beyond the forum to ensure that the voices of local athletes continue to influence national policy. Many described the meeting as a historic step toward creating a more balanced athletics federation.
AK officials, on their part, commended the Eastern region’s proactive participation. They reaffirmed that all submissions would be considered before finalizing the new constitution.
“Every county’s voice will shape the future of athletics,” one AK representative remarked, encouraging continued dialogue and written submissions from county associations.
Key Takeaways from the Kinoru Forum
- Counties must receive increased funding proportionate to their athletic activity and population size.
- Youth involvement in leadership should be formalized through mentorship and quotas.
- Anti-doping and athlete evaluation systems must be fair, transparent, and standardized.
- Representation in AK’s leadership should follow proportional and rotational principles.
- Reforms must comply with the Sports Act 2013 and promote accountability through open reporting.
How Counties Can Engage Moving Forward
Get Involved: County athletics associations and sports stakeholders are encouraged to submit formal proposals to the AK review secretariat. Youth groups and community clubs can nominate delegates for the proposed Youth Leadership Council, while civil society organisations should continue to monitor funding transparency. Collaboration across counties will be key to ensuring lasting change.
Building a Fair and Future-Ready Athletics Kenya
The Eastern region’s submissions at Kinoru Stadium captured the essence of what Kenyan athletics urgently needs — equity, transparency, and generational renewal.
As Athletics Kenya finalizes its reforms, the call from Meru to Marsabit is unmistakable: it’s time for an inclusive and accountable federation that reflects the diversity and potential of all regions.
By investing in young talent, ensuring fair representation, and creating a culture of transparency, Athletics Kenya has a unique opportunity to build a lasting legacy.
The Eastern region’s unity and determination may well be the spark that inspires broader national transformation in sports governance.
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