Sports Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Ababu Namwamba, has called on Kenyan corporate organizations to partner with the Government to support the growth and development of sports in the country, emphasizing that corporates must view support for sports as an investment rather than merely a charitable event.The CS stated that the Government is eager to collaborate with private sector institutions to transform sports into an “economic product” that benefits both them and the athletes they sponsor.##NAJAVA_MECA_7863387##”There’s no way the government alone can bear the burden of growing sports and turning it into the significant economic ecosystem it should be. This necessitates partnerships, particularly with the corporate sector.The reason why the Government, through the Ministry of Sports, is working closely with corporates is to present sports as an economic product and encourage corporates to invest, not as a CSR or charitable activity, but as an investment. Because sports represent a significant investment,” he explained.During an extensive interview conducted on the sidelines of the third round of the 2024 Magical Kenya Ladies Open – currently underway at the PGA Baobab Course in Vipingo Ridge, Kilifi – the CS reiterated his warning that sports federations lacking transparency, accountability, and good governance, as well as a robust youth development agenda, should not expect Government funding.He stressed that sports federations in Kenya need to evolve into “breeding grounds for nurturing talent,” supported by strong youth and grassroots development programs.”Federations cannot solely focus on attending events or presenting budgets for events in various capitals worldwide or hosting events in Kenya. They must serve as breeding grounds for talent development. This is why I’ve urged federations to invest in youth and grassroots development programs. Every federation should have a youth talent development program. We won’t allocate funds for event hosting if there isn’t a robust youth development agenda in place,” he emphasized.Wayodi’s thirst for fresh challenge reason for Vihiga Queens exit
