IAAF pledges support for upcoming African athletes

The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) has pledged more support to African countries to nurture young athletes.

Addressing journalist on Saturday during a media briefing in Kampala ahead Sunday’s IAAF World Cross Country Championship at Kololo Grounds, the IAAF President Sebastian Coe said that the world athletics governing body is determined to improve the sport in Africa.

He further emphasized on Africa hosting major events and races to attract more talents among young and upcoming athletes within the continent.

Africa has been known to produce several best athletes in major racing events in the world with Kenya, Ethiopian and South Africa taking the lead in raising the continent’s status.

Meanwhile, Uganda is set to host the 42nd IAAF World Cross Country Championships on Sunday. 557 male and female athletes from 60 countries will participate in the event which is being hosted for the first time in the East African country and the fifth time in Africa since 1973.