Extreme Sports boss urges government to offer tax rebates to sponsors

Extreme Sports CEO Hussein Mohammed juggles the ball in a past event. [Boniface Okendo, Standard]

Extreme Sports founder and CEO Hussein Mohammed has urged the government to enhance incentives like tax rebates to attract sponsorships in sports.

Speaking during the national boxing selection trials for Africa Olympic Qualifiers at Charter Hall, Nairobi over the weekend, Mohammed said the private sector can play a key role in the development of sports in the country.

"Stake holders in sports must be proactive in the national budgeting process moving forward if the sector is to experience any meaningful growth," said Mohammed.

"Enhanced incentives to sponsors in the form of tax rebates and special consideration for private sector players in development of sports infrastructure should be a significant part of our budgeting process moving forward."

Though he was pleased with the performance of boxers during three-day trials at Charter Hall, he challenged the Boxing Federation of Kenya (BFK) to do everything possible to restore the country's lost glory on the international scene.

"I wish to congratulate all the participants in this important trials that will select our representatives heading to the Olympics next year. Despite all the challenges they face, the organisers and boxers have shown resilience, commitment and dedication to the sport and country," said Mohammed.

"Kenya used to be a boxing super power in the 80's but we have unfortunately lost our status on the global stage over the years. Recovery is possible but we must get back to the basics. Reclaim our community social halls, popularise the sport in schools and get both public and private sectors investment reaching the grassroots."