Governors have pledged to support the nurturing of youth talents across the country. In separate messages delivered to Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) Secretariat in Kapsabet, the County bosses said the games provide an opportunity for youths under the age of 25 years to showcase their talents as they engage in various sports disciplines.
Among the Governors who pledged their unwavering support includes Stephen Sang (Nandi), Prof. Kivutha Kibwana (Makueni), Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga), Dr Mohamed Kuti (Isiolo), Cornel Rasanga (Siaya), Wycliffe Oparanya (Kakamega), Mohamed Ali (Marsabit), Samuel Tunai (Narok), Wycliffe Wangamati (Bungoma) and Patrick Khaemba (Trans Nzoia).
Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong said sports continues to give Kenya international acclaim with the latest being the crowning of Eliud Kipchoge as the IAAF World Athlete of the Year. He is also the world marathon record holder. This success story has put us at par with superpower nations.
He said talent identification and nurturing for growth and development of our youths is the top priority of his government, adding that they are fully committed in promoting sports from the grassroots. “Sports play a critical role in nation building and through such championships. Many sporting activities have been planned at Ward levels including ball games and capacity building for the youths. We have rolled out the Under-9, U-13, U-17 and U-23 tournaments in our youth centres. We shall also upgrade playgrounds and equipping players with uniforms and balls,” he said.
Governor Ojaamong said his government is also in partnership with acclaimed sportsmen from the County to put up infrastructure that will help the youths to exploit their talents and raise their profiles locally and internationally.
The 5th Edition of KYISA Games that ends on Saturday involves youths who participate in County leagues and below and 18-25 years of age, and with the aim of tapping up talents from the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, Busia County Chief Officer for Youth and Sports Joy Wanga has wished Team Busia the best of luck in the on-going KYISA games, saying she has confidence the team will rise up to the occasion and upset the form book.
