Newly elected National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) First Deputy President Barnaba Korir has heaped praise on Athletics Kenya (AK) President Jack Tuwei the federation’s leadership and his family for their support throughout his career.
Speaking during a warm homecoming ceremony at Sironoi Village in Nandi County, Korir said his elevation to the NOC-K position was made possible through the mentorship and blessings of Tuwei, who has been instrumental in shaping his leadership journey.
Korir, who also serves as AK’s Youth Development Director, revealed that he took over the role from Tuwei after the latter was elected president ten years ago.
“Mr President, you gave me the support I needed to propel my skills, and that has really worked for me,” Korir said.
“You can see the confidence the president has shown in me to work, and I have been responsible for that trust. I have managed to establish various youth camps across the country. That’s what true leadership means, empowering others to implement the federation’s policies, and I am proud of it,” said Korir.
Korir emphasized the importance of dedication and accountability in leadership, warning against complacency in sports administration.
“Once you are entrusted with a position, you must give it 100%. If you can’t deliver fully, step aside and allow others to take over so that you don’t undermine the goals of the office,” he advised.
The veteran administrator praised Athletics Kenya as a model for other sports federations, citing its structured approach to nurturing athletes from grassroots to the elite level.
“We are steps ahead, and other federations are learning from us. We must defend that legacy by all means and maintain our respect globally,” he said.
Reflecting on the recent NOC-K elections, Korir described the contest as tough but credited his victory to teamwork, trust, and the unwavering support of his colleagues.
“It was a very competitive race, but through trust and belief, I managed to win the Deputy President position. I promised to do my best to build bridges and foster unity at all levels. I appreciate the support I received from the president and the executive committee, that’s what got me here,” he added.
An accountant by profession, Korir also looked back on his days as an athlete and sports manager before venturing into athletics administration.
“Before joining Athletics Kenya politics, I was an athlete and later worked at Kenyatta National Hospital as an accountant. I then became an athletes’ manager, working with top runners across various companies, which was quite successful,” he said.
Korir’s administrative journey began in 2008, when he was unexpectedly elected as the Nairobi AK chairman.
“In 2008, I became Nairobi chairman. I never planned to enter athletics politics because I was focused on management, but the athletes believed in me and campaigned for me—and to this day, they remain my friends,” he concluded.