Barnaba Korir has received the full endorsement of Athletics Kenya for the position of First Vice President of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) ahead of the upcoming elections scheduled for April 24, 2025. Korir, who currently serves as the Youth Director at Athletics Kenya, has been instrumental in shaping the future of Kenyan athletics, particularly in youth development. His nomination for the vice-presidency highlights his contributions to both local and international sporting events, further solidifying his reputation as a key figure in Kenya’s athletic community.
Korir’s leadership extends beyond his current role, as he has previously served as the Deputy Chef de Mission of Team Kenya to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. His experience in managing and organizing major sporting events is a significant asset, having held the position of Chef de Mission during the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games. His ability to effectively organize and lead teams on such a global stage speaks volumes about his competence and capacity to take on higher responsibilities within NOCK.
Athletics Kenya’s unwavering support for Korir stems from his extensive experience in organizing some of Kenya’s most prestigious athletic events, including the Absa Kip Keino Classic, the World Athletics Cross Country Tour Gold Sirikwa Classic, the Nairobi City Marathon, and the ISF World School Cross Country Championship. These events have put Kenya on the map as a key player in global athletics, and Korir’s role in their success is a testament to his organizational skills and vision for the growth of athletics in Kenya.
Athletics Kenya’s leadership has expressed full confidence in Korir’s ability to bring positive change to NOCK. His strong track record of fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, both locally and internationally, positions him as a highly capable leader who can advance the interests of Kenyan athletes. His nomination is seen as a step towards further strengthening Kenya’s ties with international sporting bodies and enhancing the country’s standing in the global sporting community.
Korir’s leadership philosophy is centered on collaboration and mutual benefit. He has pledged to work closely with all federations if elected, ensuring that the successes achieved within Athletics Kenya are shared across NOCK. His commitment to fostering unity and growth within the Olympic Movement is indicative of his inclusive approach to leadership. By leveraging the best practices established at Athletics Kenya, Korir aims to elevate the overall structure and functioning of NOCK, benefiting not just athletes but also federations, sponsors, the government, and corporate partners.
His endorsement also highlights his dedication to youth development and empowerment, a focus that has seen him play a pivotal role in nurturing young talent in Kenya. Under his leadership, Athletics Kenya has prioritized the growth and success of young athletes, ensuring that the next generation of Kenyan sports stars are equipped with the necessary resources and opportunities to succeed on the world stage.
As the countdown to the NOCK elections continues, Korir’s candidacy has already set the stage for a potential transformation in the way Kenya’s sports ecosystem operates. His extensive network of professionals from around the world, coupled with his deep understanding of the needs of Kenyan athletes, makes him an ideal candidate to take on the role of First Vice President. Korir’s nomination is seen as a reflection of Athletics Kenya’s commitment to the continued growth of Kenyan sports and its confidence in his ability to lead NOCK into a new era of success.