This archive report was first published on 24 August 2019.
As I reflect on my childhood, I'm reminded of the disappointment I felt when learning that another athlete had chosen to represent a foreign country over Kenya.
It wasn't that they gave up the opportunity to participate in a tournament; they simply chose to represent another nation.
Comments like 'Bernard Lagat of the USA' or 'Saif Saaeed Shaheen, formerly known as Stephen Cherono, for Qatar' would infuriate me.
However, I've come to accept that this is a common occurrence in Kenyan sports.
Recently, the coach of the Kenya National Deaf Swimming Team appealed for public help to raise funds for the team's trip to Brazil for the Deaf World Championships.
The Ministry of Sports claimed they lacked funds, despite knowing about the competition since last year.
This is just another example of how Kenya's sports ministry treats its athletes.
Not only do they face the challenge of being hard of hearing, but they're also burdened with unnecessary anxiety.
It's worth noting that Kenya recently sent 90 delegates to a conference in the USA at a cost of Sh100 million.
This kind of treatment explains why some athletes choose to leave Kenya and represent other countries.
Even if they're lucky enough to attend a tournament, they may struggle to find accommodation and meals.
Just last week, the athletics and volleyball teams for African Games were kicked out of Luke Hotel in Nairobi for lack of payment.
Returning home can be a nightmare, with long stays at the airport and uncomfortable sleeping arrangements.
It's time for Kenya's sports ministry to take responsibility and treat its athletes with the respect they deserve.
With tournament listings available a year or more in advance, there's no excuse for last-minute surprises.
As we approach the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, it's essential that Kenya's sports ministry gets its act together.
If we don't want to lose talented athletes to other countries, we must stop treating them with disregard.
There are athletes who can never be replaced, and we're lucky they put up with our shenanigans.
Imagine Eliud Kipchoge giving up running for Kenya and joining Team Great Britain instead.
Or Victor Wanyama deciding Nigeria can serve him better – would Tottenham Hotspur still hold a special place in your heart?
As this column reaches its 100th article, I want to thank all the readers for their support and engagement.
