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Francis Mutuku, the current Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) and Vice President of Tennis Kenya, has officially announced his candidacy for the NOC-K presidency for the 2025-2028 term.
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Mutuku has committed to advancing Kenyan sports by focusing on athlete welfare, increasing Olympic participation, and enhancing governance structures.
His campaign, under the slogan “Serve, Innovate, Elevate,” presents an ambitious plan to transform Kenyan sports and elevate athletes to global standards.
Mutuku’s leadership philosophy is centered on service and creating tangible impact. “My aim is to bring lasting change for our athletes by ensuring they have the necessary structures, support, and opportunities for success,” he stated.
Under the leadership of outgoing President Paul Tergat, NOC-K has experienced stability and growth, with Kenya winning four gold medals at both the Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024 Olympics. These achievements follow the legacy of Kipchoge Keino, who led the country during the golden eras of Beijing 2008 and Rio 2016, where Kenya claimed six gold medals in each.
“My predecessors are legends, and Tergat and Kipchoge Keino were historic athletes. This represents a shift in the paradigm. I come as a servant, bringing hope for the future,” said Mutuku.
James Kenani, President of Tennis Kenya, endorsed Mutuku’s leadership, saying, “Mutuku is a proven leader with a solid track record in building partnerships, driving sports development, and implementing policies that benefit both athletes and federations.”
One of his primary goals is to increase the number of Kenyan athletes at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Mutuku believes that with effective planning and support for federations, Kenya can expand its representation beyond the six disciplines entered in the Paris 2024 Games.
“Preparation must begin early,” he stressed. “If elected, you will feel the impact of my leadership within 30 days through tangible actions toward LA 2028.”
Mutuku also aims to improve the financial stability of Team Kenya, enhance sponsorship opportunities, and increase revenue through strategic partnerships. He envisions utilizing technology and sports science to modernize athlete training and administration.
The NOC-K election process is officially underway. A 21-day notice for the electoral congress will be issued by March 28, with nominations running from April 3 to April 10.
The final list of approved candidates will be announced by April 17, a week before the elections on April 24. Any disputes will be addressed during the appeals period starting April 25.
Mutuku’s campaign team includes BFK President Anthony Otieno Ombok (also known as Jamal) as First Deputy, NOC-K Treasurer Eliud Kariuki as Second Deputy, Executive Members Shoaib Mohamed as Treasurer, and John Ogolla as Secretary General.
The campaign is gaining momentum, with National Olympic Committee of Kenya Athletes’ Commission Chair Humphrey Kayange also running for the position.
