NOC-K elections: Mutuku announces candidacy for presidency

NOC-K Secretary General Francis Mutuku announcing his candidacy for NOC-K Presidency in Nairobi on ThursdayMarch 27, 2025 [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

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 under the campaign theme “Born to Serve.”

Mutuku says he has played a pivotal role in transforming NOC-K into a dynamic and efficient organization that prioritizes athletes’ development and well-being.

“Service and impact define my journey,” Mutuku stated during the launch. “My commitment is to continue fostering a system where athletes thrive, federations are empowered, and Kenya solidifies its position as a sporting powerhouse,” he added.

Mutuku, who served under the leadership of outgoing President Paul Tergat, says NOC-K experienced an era of stability and transformation, a legacy he aims to build upon, once elected, by ensuring the organization remains performance-driven, financially secure, and innovative.

In his detailed manifesto, Mutuku aims to achieve the following five pillars in office:

1. Athlete Welfare and Development – Establishing clear development pathways, university scholarships, and safeguarding initiatives to support athletes on and off the field.
2. Elite Athletes Performance – Strengthening high-performance training, expanding scholarship programs, and preparing Team Kenya for LA 2028 with world-class facilities and resources.
3. Organizational Sustainability – Enhancing governance structures, capacity-building for federations, and integrating sports tourism and diplomacy.
4. Financial Stability – Developing Team Kenya as a strong brand, increasing sponsorships, and maximizing revenue through strategic partnerships.
5. Technology & Innovation – Leveraging AI, sports science, and digital engagement platforms to modernize Kenyan sports operations and athlete training.

Mutuku has also served as the Secretary General of ANOCA Zone V, representing 11 African countries, and as Deputy President of Tennis Kenya. His experience includes policy formulation, grassroots sports development, and governance reforms within Kenya’s sports sector.

“My promise is to serve with integrity, vision, and dedication,” he emphasized. “Together, we will build a future where Kenyan athletes and sports organizations thrive globally.”

Having served Tennis Kenya in different capacities for over two decades, the Tennis governing body also rallied behind him with Tennis Kenya President James Kenani stating: “Francis is a proven leader with a track record of building collaborations, driving sports development, and implementing policies that benefit athletes and federations alike."