By Erick Ochieng’
The Government has allocated Sh1billion to support sports activities across the country.
Minister for Sports Paul Otuoma said the money will be devolved to the 47 Counties to help promote sports and identification of talents. This will include setting up of a vibrant and modern sport facility at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
The Government will also start a National Sports Institute that will help with the training and developing of quality coaches, referees, umpires and other sports officials at different levels.
The Minister reiterated that plans are still underway to establish a National Sports Board that will help with the raising of funds for sports development.
Otuoma, however, challenged corporate, individuals and well-wishers to come on board and complement the efforts done by the Government to uplift sports in the country.
“With their help and the sports bill that is around the corner being implemented, sports will take a new growth dimension,” said Otuoma.
Disabled athletes
The minister assured the disable community that their needs will be catered for when the government finish upgrading the sports facilities.
“Plans are underway to upgrade sporting facilities across the country to satisfy the needs of people with disability,” said Otuoma.
Otuoma noted that the Government intends to use sports to fight poverty, ignorance and diseases, which are in line with the Vision 2030 initiative.
Otuoma however, cautioned athletes who will be representing Kenya at the London Games, World Junior Championships in Barcelona and in the Second World Deaf Athletics Championship in Toronto to be focused.
