Kampala is ready, Musisi assures IAAF

By Norman Katende in Guiyang

Even before the dust settles at the 2015 IAAF World Cross Country championships in Guiyang, athletics giants Ethiopia and Kenya are already looking forward to outmuscling the other in the 2017 edition in Kampala.

Champion Geoffrey Kamwomwor has promised to defend the title while the Ethiopians have promised to avenge the defeat to the Kenyans in the senior men’s race.

During the press conference for medallists, Kamwomwor, who won the senior men gold medal was the first to throw the baton, saying that he was looking forward to defend his title.

“It was a tough race and with Uganda being our neighbours, I will be there and will fight to defend the title,” he said adding that the biggest threat was from the Ugandan upcoming youngsters.

However, Ethiopia’s Edris Muktar, who won bronze was fast to shoot back.

“Well this has been Kenya’s time but we will be in Kampala to revenge. We want to win that title again and we will do it,” he said.

The medallists, who paused for photos with the Uganda Local Organising Committee all showed interest in travelling to Kampala for the event, the third time it is being held in Africa after Morocco and Mombasa.

While addressing the international media, State sports minister Charles Bakkabulindi pointed that government had already taken steps to ensure that the event is a success.

“We might not have so much money but we are unique and with all the government support and the local organising committee’s hard work, expect a unique cross country,” said Bakkabulindi. KCCA Executive director

Jennifer Musisi, who later received the IAAF Flag from IAAF president Lamine Diack at a ceremony that took place at the Guiyang Eco Conference Centre, told international journalists about the attractions to look forward to in Kampala.

“It is a welcoming place, nominated as the fifth safest city in Africa to do business and one of the 10 best destinations in the world.

So whether for sports or fun, have a reason to be in Kampala 2017 and you will not regret,” said Musisi.

Uganda Athletics president Domenic Otuchet also attended the press conference.

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