Joseph Fahnbulleh: From bridging continents to chasing glory in Nairobi
“That’s part of why I wanted to come—to test myself, enjoy the vibe, and connect more with the African sprints scene.”
NAIROBI, Kenya, May 30- American-born Liberian sprint star Joseph Fahnbulleh is fired up for his Absa Kip Keino Classic debut on Saturday (May 31) in Nairobi.
The 23-year-old is delighted to finally showcase his craft in the mother continent as a tribute to his appreciation for Africa’s sprinting culture.
“It’s good to be here. This meet has real energy and passion from the crowd.
“That’s part of why I wanted to come—to test myself, enjoy the vibe, and connect more with the African sprints scene,” the double African champion said on the eve of the Classic on Friday.
Physically, Fahnbulleh says he’s in a good place heading to the sixth leg of this year’s World Athletics Continental Gold tour.
“My team and I are targeting consistency in the 20.0-low range for the 200m, and hopefully dipping under on a good day. But beyond that, I want to execute a clean, smart race.”
Fahnbulleh, who was born to Liberian parents in Hopkins, Minnesota has graced the biggest competitions in international athletics but according to him, Nairobi is a valued stop.
World Class
“Meets like this help me fine-tune, get sharp against world-class athletes, and lock in mentally before the major championships later in the year.”
His fourth-place finish at the Eugene 2022 World Championships still fuels his desire to ascend to the podium at the Tokyo 2025 edition in September.
“That moment taught me a lot. It was a reminder that talent’s not enough—you need precision, focus, and hunger.
“Since then, I’ve worked on closing races better and staying mentally aggressive through the line.”
The athlete who prefers to double brings a 9.98s lifetime best in the men’s 100m and 19.83 PB in the longer dash to Nairobi.
“You have to respect the recovery game. Ice, hydration, sleep—non-negotiables.
“Mentally, it’s about compartmentalizing: run, recover, reset. Don’t carry one race into the next. Stay present and trust the work.”
Last year, he grabbed both African titles in Douala, Cameroon for Liberia, having upgraded from the 4X100m relay bronze he won at the 2023 continental championships in Accra, Nigeria.
Despite declaring for Liberia, the country of his heritage, Fahnbulleh still maintains close ties with his nation of birth, the United States.
Heartfelt Message
“I carry both flags in my heart. Liberia is home—it’s family, its roots. The U.S. gave me structure and opportunity. When I run, I run for both. It’s not a conflict; it’s a fusion.”
As a double NCAA champion, Fahnbulleh is well aware of the differences between college competition and the elite circuit.
“NCAA is intense—every weekend feels like a final. But global pro meets bring a different maturity.
“You’re not just racing 20-year-olds. You’re facing seasoned sprinters who know how to win when it counts.”
And Kenya has treated him kindly since he arrived.
“The altitude adds a little spice to the preps, but it’s manageable. The facilities are great, and the atmosphere is electric.
“You feel the passion for track here—fans are educated and loud. I love it.”
To his fans across Africa, he has a heartfelt message.
“I see you. I’m one of you. Never let your background limit your ambition. If you have a dream, protect it and chase it hard.”
-By Peter Njoroge
