National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) First Deputy President Barnaba Korir is optimistic that Team Kenya will win medals across all disciplines at the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games, apart from its athletics stronghold.
The Athletics Kenya Nairobi Branch Chairman cited improved preparations, expanded delegation and growing prospects in sports beyond athletics in his view.
Korir said a dedicated team was overseeing preparations, with training camps established in Mombasa and at Kenyatta University as Kenya intensifies its build-up to the global youth competition.
“We have a strong team that has been in charge of preparations for the championships. We have training teams in Mombasa and at Kenyatta University, and we are optimistic that we are going to win,” said Korir.
He expressed confidence that the increased number of athletes and wider representation across different sports would give Kenya more opportunities to secure podium finishes.
Kenya's delegation will compete in several disciplines, including athletics, rugby, baseball, swimming, cycling, boxing, judo, triathlon, fencing and beach wrestling. The expanded line-up reflects the country's efforts to broaden its presence beyond its traditional strength in track and field.
The athletics contingent is expected to comprise eight athletes, while rugby will have 12 representatives and baseball eight. Swimming will field four athletes, while cycling, boxing and judo will each have one representative.
Korir singled out rugby sevens and basketball 3x3 as disciplines that could boost Kenya's medal prospects beyond athletics. He noted that these sports could make a valuable contribution to the country's overall performance.
The broader participation is also expected to create more opportunities for young talent, as Kenya continues to invest in emerging sports and prepare athletes to compete at international level.
Korir also reaffirmed NOCK's commitment to supporting athletes who need assistance to participate in major competitions. He said those who approach the committee with specific needs are given priority consideration.
He urged national sports federations to inform NOCK promptly of any financial challenges that could disrupt preparations or prevent athletes from competing internationally.
Timely communication, he said, would enable the relevant stakeholders to explore possible interventions and ensure that deserving athletes are not excluded because of financial constraints.
Meanwhile, Korir has expressed concern over the situation involving Kenyan marathon star Peres Jepchirchir, emphasising the importance of athlete education and proper guidance.
Speaking in an interview with Citizen TV, the NOCK First Deputy President said Athletics Kenya had a responsibility to educate athletes and ensure they received adequate information before making decisions with potentially significant consequences for their careers and the country's sporting reputation.
Korir said he was shocked by the move involving Jepchirchir, warning that it could negatively affect Kenya. He called for greater emphasis on education and guidance throughout the process.
“We want to see what can be done to ensure proper education is included in this process,” he said.
His remarks highlighted the need for sports administrators and federations to strengthen communication, education and guidance, particularly when handling sensitive matters involving prominent athletes.
As preparations for Dakar 2026 continue, Kenya will seek to translate its expanded participation and training efforts into strong performances. Athletics, rugby sevens and basketball 3x3 are among the disciplines expected to provide opportunities for success.
Ultimately, the country's medal ambitions will depend on the quality of its athletes, effective coordination, adequate support and thorough preparation across all the participating sports.