The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) has been preparing the team at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani since mid-June, with the first batch expected to leave for Scotland on July 15 ahead of the games which run from July 23 to August 2.
Athletes’ Welfare Representative Stanley Mutuma said the team’s preparations have been built around ensuring athletes can focus entirely on competition.
“Team Kenya is quite well prepared. The preparations have been going on well since the team checked into camp, and we have put in place structures to make the management easier. We have committees on welfare, accommodation, travel, logistics and safeguarding because we want to make it athlete-centred,” said Mutuma.
Furthermore, he expressed confidence that the logistical issues which have affected Team Kenya at previous international events will not recur in Glasgow.
“There were a lot of lessons from the mess of 2016. The kits have already arrived and the athletes will be taken care of. When the athlete is supported, they are able to deliver, and I don’t think there will be that kind of a mess again.”
NOC-K President Shadrack Kitili Maluki also welcomed increased corporate support, saying partnerships with the private sector are helping address long-standing challenges in sports preparation. Bidco Africa recently joined Team Kenya as its hydration partner through its premium brand, Alista.
Bidco Africa Chairman Vimal Shah urged more companies to invest in national teams.
“We all assume the government will pay for everything but if the team has a need, it is our responsibility to step in and help. These are the people who make us proud whenever they represent Kenya so let’s support them when they need it,” Shah said.
While officials are confident the team’s preparations are on course, athletes have set their sights on improving Kenya’s medal tally.
Team captain and judoka Zeddy Cherotich said the squad is determined to better its performance from the previous Commonwealth Games.
“Everyone is prepared for these Games and we are going to do our best as we fly Kenya’s flag high. Our target right now is to get more medals than the last Commonwealth Games,” she said.
The African Judo Championships bronze medalist also appealed for greater investment in grassroots sport.
“We have improved, but we still need more equipment and facilities. Some athletes struggle to access gyms and judo so we hope more support will come, especially for young players,”
Her teammate Regan Mwandi, who is set for his Commonwealth Games debut, said the atmosphere in camp has boosted the team’s confidence.
“Things are going so well in camp because we train a lot. It’s my first Commonwealth Games but I’m well prepared and ready for the games. I hope to do my best and represent Kenya with pride,” he said.
With preparations entering the final stretch, Team Kenya believes improved planning, stronger partnerships and an athlete-first approach will provide the platform for a successful campaign in Glasgow.
