Athletics Kenya marks International Women’s Day, calls on equity

As the world marks International Women’s Day on Wednesday, Athletics Kenya joins in celebration with this year’s theme ‘Embrace Equity’ calling on equity in sports.

“We dedicate this day to celebrate the achievements of women in social, cultural and political fields. As a federation we have acknowledged the value and importance of our legendary women who have proven their prowess in the world of athletics,” said Susan Kamau, AK Chief Administrative Officer when she met current and former athletes at Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi alongside Elizabeth Keitany AK Executive Member.

We give special mention to the women who have contributed immensely to the growth of athletics over the years.

Some of the notable women with reputable performance in the global athletics scene includes Tecla Lorupe, Catherine Ndereba, Pamela Jelimo, Milcah Chemos, Mary Keitany, Janeth Jepkosgei, Vivian Cheruiyot, Hellen Obiri, Sally Barsosio, Beatrice Chepkoech, Nancy Jebet, Mary Moraa, Brigit Kosgei, Faith Kipyegon, the newly minted World Cross Country champion Beatrice Chebet.

thletics Kenya through its Executive and Women’s Commission is set to develop safeguarding policies to protect girls in athletics.

“Despite great achievement in sports, female athletes continue to face variety of challenges ranging from lack of basic necessities to sexual abuse by their respective support personnel.

“We want to provide a safe environment to enable the affected girls to advance with their athletics careers.” Said Keitany.

AK also called on government and sports stakeholders to encourage female led sports and allocation of adequate resources to sportswomen and women’s programmes as well as incorporate the promotion of gender equality in sports.

Some of the current and former athletes who attended the AK programme included Moraa, Monica Safenia, Linda Kageha, Chemos, Barsosia Jebet among others.

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