AK keen to improve climatic conditions in sports venues

ATHLETICS Kenya (AK) President Jackson Tuwei has reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to championing climate action in sport, underlining the importance of clean air in enhancing athlete performance.

Speaking through AK executive member Maxwell Nyamu during the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) celebrations at Kakamega School, Tuwei said the federation remains fully aligned with the global push for sustainability.

“As a member federation of World Athletics, we are required to adhere to the World Athletics Sustainability strategy 2020-2030, being implemented through the Athletics for a better World (ABW) standard,” Tuwei said in a speech read by Nyamu.

In August 2021, AK signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The event further saw the launch of an air quality monitoring station at Kakamega School by Ambassador Gertrude Angote, Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UNEP and UNON.

The move is aimed at improving environmental conditions in sports venues within the school.

Other dignitaries present included Philip Osano, Centre Director of SEI Africa, Kakamega School Chief Principal Julius Mambili, and area MP Titus Khamala. Kakamega becomes the latest beneficiary of the air quality project, following St. Patrick’s High School, Iten, Maseno School and Kwanthanze High School.

Tuwei said AK, in collaboration with UNEP and the Stockholm Environment Institute, has intensified efforts to tackle air pollution in sports training grounds. “Athletes’ performance requires the best possible conditions, and one of them in clean air. Training time and location are dictated by the environmental conditions.”

“It is therefore important that we maintain clean air in our sports venues and schools for better health conditions for our athletes and children in school,” said Tuwei.

He commended Kakamega School for embracing the clean air initiative, describing the school as a trailblazer and a role model in integrating sport and environmental stewardship.

“I congratulate Kakamega School for the start of this partnership with all of us to drive the agenda of sport and environment and be role models for others and the communities.”