It is often rare for seniors to openly praise their juniors for exemplary service, but that was not the case at Sironoi Village in Nandi County during the homecoming celebration for Barnaba Korir, the newly elected first Deputy President of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K).
Athletics Kenya (AK) President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei showered Korir with praise, describing him as “a man of many huts”, a symbol of the numerous roles he has played in the success of the federation and Kenyan athletics at large.
“I just want to let you know about the many ‘huts’ Mr. Korir has worn throughout his journey, from his days as an athlete in the 1980s to his current position as an administrator,” said Tuwei.
“Through his networks, he brought in key partners such as Nike, through John Capriotti, and Bob Verbeeck from Golazo, relationships that continue to benefit Athletics Kenya and our athletes to date.”
As the AK Youth Development Director, a role Tuwei described as “dear to the federation,” Korir has not only focused on nurturing running talent but also emphasized education. Under his leadership, Kenya was ranked number one globally during the World Kids’ Athletics Day.
“Because of that achievement, Kenya was invited to Tokyo, not to compete, but to showcase how we managed to win the overall title in Kids’ Athletics,” Tuwei noted proudly.
Last year, Kenya won the hosting rights for the ISF World Schools Cross Country Championships, an event where Korir led the Kenyan contingent to emerge as the best in the world.
“He has successfully led various teams to the Olympics, World Championships, World Under-18, and World Under-20 competitions, among others,” Tuwei added. “Under his leadership, we have also excelled in local and international events such as the Sirikwa Classic, Kip Keino Classic, Nairobi City Marathon, and the Chepsaita Cross Country.”
Tuwei further highlighted that Korir’s election as NOC-K Deputy President was a collective effort supported by Athletics Kenya.
“The reason we are here is to celebrate his well-deserved election. As a federation, we worked tirelessly to support him, and our efforts have borne fruit. Korir has already started delivering results for the athletics community,” said Tuwei.
Despite his busy schedule, Korir remains a devoted family man, a quality that, according to Tuwei, complements his leadership.
“He is not only dedicated to his family but also to the larger community. That is why the people of Sironoi organized this homecoming event—to celebrate one of their own,” he said.
Tuwei also lauded Korir for his close relationship with the media, which he uses to promote athletics across the country.
“He ensures that athletics is understood and appreciated by Kenyans. Through his media engagements, he continues to spread the gospel of athletics,” concluded Tuwei.