Deaf athletics receives Sh17 million windfall

The Government and the National Bank of Kenya have donated Sh17 million for the Second World Deaf Athletics Championship in Toronto, Canada, from July 12-22.

The Government has granted Sh15million, while NBK proved that Deaf Athletics belongs to them with an endorsement worth Sh2million for preparation for the world championships, which also act as qualifiers for Deaflympics, next year.

The Government and the National Bank will reward winning athletes from the Canada championship. Each will receive Sh300,000 for gold, Sh200,000 for silver, and Sh100,000 for bronze won.

Sports Minister, Paul Otuoma, said the Sh15million will cater for the air tickets, accommodation, local and overseas training, and allowances.

“We urge corporates and well wishers to come on board to aid DAAK with their preparation,” said Otuoma on Tuesday.

The minister also confirmed that plans are under way to upgrade sporting facilities to conform with the needs of disabled people.

“Funds have been released by the Government to construct an international state of the art sports facility in Kasarani area that will also cater for the disable people,” said Otuoma, who thanked NBK for coming on board.

NBK Managing Director, Reuben Marambii, has promised to extend the sponsorship to next year’s Deaflympics championship should the Kenyan squad participate impressively in Canada.

“NBK will consider DAAK in its Sh40million budget reserved annually for corporate social responsibility in promotion of sports, health, and education. This is subject to good performance in Canada,” said Marambii.

DAAK has released the final squad of 25 athletes and nine officials who will travel to Canada harmonised from a shortlist of 65.