Over 134 countries expected at 2024 ISF World School Cross Country Championships

More than a century of countries are set to compete in the 2024 International Schools Sport Federation (ISF) World School Cross Country Championships that will take place at the Ngong Race Course in Nairobi from May 10-15 next year.

The majority of participants will be young talented learners between the ages of 12 to 18.

Kenya received a nod to host the international championships after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ISF.

The MoU was signed by the chairman of Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) chairman Kipchumba Maiyo and the President of ISF Laurent Petrynka at the Ministry of Education headquarters at Jogoo House.

The event was graced by Education CS Ezekiel Machogu, alongside the Principal Secretary for Basic Education Dr. Belio Kipsang, who praised the decision by ISF to grant Kenya the hosting rights of the global event. The event will attract learners aged between 12 and 18 from 134 countries.

Machogu promised his ministry's support in pulling off a successful event, noting that providing avenues for talented learners to showcase their skills on a bigger stage.

“I assure ISF and KSSSA that the government will ensure this championship is held successfully. We operate under the one-government approach mantra and will reach out to the concerned partners like the Ministry of Sports to host a wonderful event next year in May,” said Machogu.

ISF President Mr. Laurent Petrynka was grateful to the Kenyan government for their commitment to ensure a seamless event.

“I’m happy with the way the government of Kenya is committed to ensuring this event will be held successfully. We’ve signed all the agreements and I can confirm ISF is satisfied after the government’s support and commitment towards this event,” Petrynka offered.

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Last year’s 25th edition was held in Slovakia.

Uganda will enter six teams of boys and girls U12, U15, and U17 categories.

Besides sporting activities, attendees will be treated to cultural exchange activities which will give them opportunities to exchange and learn about each participant and their countries.

Others who attended the occasion included Athletics Kenya boss Lt (Rtd) General Jackson Tuwei, Director of Field Coordination and Co-Curricular Activities Hassan Duale, the presidents of Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Associations (FEASSSA); Justus Mugisha of Uganda, Rwanda’s Luke Karemangingo and Dennis Otieno of Tanzania.