2021 Soya gala gets timely boost

From left, Kenyan retired Middle-distance runner and politician, Wilfred Bungei (representing Tergat Foundation) and Malaika Strikers Volleyball Middle Blocker, Trizah Atuka as they receive a cheque worth Ksh. 500,000 from Peris Nduta - Sponsorship Manager at Safaricom PLC, towards SOYA Awards at Sarova Panafric Hotel in Nairobi. Jan 13, 2022. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

The 2021 Sports Personality of the Year Awards (SOYA) yesterday received a sponsorship boost of Sh4 million from the Lotto Foundation, National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and Safaricom PLC.

SOYA founder Paul Tergat celebrated Kenyans, specifically the sporting fraternity for their prowess last year, even as the world slowly emerged from the Covid-19 pandemic.

“This year, our awards gala reflects on the continued bravery of our sports men and women despite the global pandemic. As we head to Kakamega for the gala, SOYA is matching into adulthood, in this 18th edition of the awards, with boldness and courage that better days lie ahead for our sportsmen and women,” he said.

Tergat commended County governments for their invitation and reception when hosting the SOYA events. “We are grateful to all counties that have come on board and supported our gala. We’ll be in Kakamega and we’ve been hosted by Nakuru and Mombasa Counties.”

“Indeed, the journey to recognise and celebrate our sportsmen and women continues to be a success. We are now keen on ensuring recognition of Kenya as a sporting nation remains part of who we are as a
nation,” he said.

SOYA chairman, Chris Mbaisi, added that the exemplary performance in 2021 was an indicator that Kenya’s athletes will continue to leave an indelible mark in the sporting world.