The Government of Kenya through the Ministry of Sports under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has donated Ksh1.8 million to the Rising Stars as a token of appreciation for their successful qualification to the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations.The Kenya men’s national Under-20 side booked a place in the continental tournament set to be held in South Africa next year for the first time ever in the current format after seeing off Burundi in the semi-final played last week.However, they were unlucky not to lift the coveted trophy as they lost 2-1 in the final to hosts Tanzania.##NAJAVA_MECA_8435595##For the remarkable outing, the ministry announced the reward during a breakfast hosted by Murkomen in celebration of the team’s exceptional performance.CS Murkomen praised the players for their dedication, noting that the team’s achievement is a result of long-term investment in talent development.”This historic feat is a testament to the Ministry’s commitment to identifying and nurturing talent at a young age. Six of the players have progressed through our U-13, U-15, and U-17 teams, and today they stand as proof of what sustained investment can accomplish,” he saidNine branch chairmen un-opposed in FKF electionsHe emphasized that unlike in the past, national teams are now fully supported financially for international competitions, ensuring athletes can focus entirely on their performance.”We are committed to not only rewarding success but also ensuring our teams are well-prepared. Our financial support means that our players no longer have to worry about logistics or facilitation – they just focus on competing,” he added.Meanwhile, Murkomen provided an update on the progress of various stadiums across the country, stressing the importance of maintaining and renovating these facilities to support the hosting of major tournaments and nurture local talent.##NAJAVA_MECA_8435584##In a move to develop young athletes, the Ministry will oversee the construction of 30 football academies across the country. Murkomen confirmed that standardized designs for these academies have already been finalized.“The Ministry will oversee the construction of 30 sports academies across the country. We have developed standardized designs for these facilities,” Murkomen said.Mary Moraa explains post critiquing former Deputy President Rigathi GachaguaThe Cabinet Secretary also highlighted plans to collaborate with schools that have a strong sports tradition, intending to identify talented players early and improve sports infrastructure nationwide.”We will work with schools to enhance sports facilities and identify talent at a young age,” Murkomen stated.On his end, Rising Stars head coach Salim Babu emphasized the need for better training, noting that the team is stepping up to a more competitive level.Babu expressed the importance of holding pre-season preparations outside the country to enhance their performance.”We are entering a new level, and the government has been very supportive. It would be beneficial for the team to train abroad,” Babu said.##NAJAVA_MECA_8435595##
