PS Mwangi defends push for new Sports law

Principal Secretary for Sports Elijah Mwangi has strongly defended the push for a new sports policy and a comprehensive overhaul of the Sports Act, citing significant changes in Kenya’s sporting landscape since the current framework was adopted.

Speaking on Citizen TV’s Sporty Monday programme, Mwangi said the existing sports policy was developed in 2005 - long before the enactment of the Sports Act in 2013 and the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution -leaving the country operating under laws that no longer reflect current realities.

“Over time, things have changed,” Mwangi said, pointing to the growth in the number of sports disciplines, increased public interest, and evolving funding structures within the sector.

He explained that while the sports policy provides the foundation for the Sports Act, both instruments now require review and updating to align with modern developments.

Mwangi revealed that the proposed reforms go beyond minor amendments, with the government seeking an almost complete overhaul of the current Sports Act to address new and emerging needs in the sector. A key focus area, he said, is the registration and regulation of sportsmen and women, clubs, and federations.

The PS highlighted the role of a dedicated department within the Ministry of Sports that handles registration matters, noting that the proposed legislation clearly spells out procedures and expectations.

“If I make a proposal seeking registration of my club, or bid interest as a sportsman or federation, what happens? Under the proposed Sports Act, this process is now clearly defined,” he said.

Mwangi also underscored the importance of public participation in shaping the final legislation, urging Kenyans with an interest in sports to review the proposals available on the ministry’s website ahead of a planned national sports conference.

“Take your time and go through them,” he urged, adding that public views will be incorporated into the final bill before it is submitted to Cabinet and later tabled in Parliament.

The proposed reforms, Mwangi said, are aimed at future-proofing Kenyan sport and ensuring the sector remains responsive, transparent, and well-governed.