Inside Harambee Stars Wanyama’s Football Academy in Busia

According to a video released recently, the complex, which sits on 21 acres, is expected to provide a platform for the next generation of young footballers in Kenya, at the same time contributing to the grassroots development of soccer.

Among the facilities set up include administration and classroom blocks.

Mariga shared a sneak pick of the progress of the academy, which he said would revolutionalise sports, training, and education in the county and the country at large.

“We want to play the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup; that is our target. I think that if we have proper academies in the country, this being the first one, we will produce more and more players and big players,” he said. 

The academy is expected to have a football stadium, an administration block with teachers and trainers, classes and other offices. 

Following the announcement to set up the initiative, the Busia County government reaffirmed its support for the project in a bid to nurture talent in the county.

Apart from focusing on football, Mariga said the academy will also incorporate other activities such as Ping Pong and also offer co-curricular activities such as Play Stations. 

He said his family will ensure the smooth running of the initiative following the overwhelming support it has received from both internal and external partners.

Mariga expressed confidence that he and his brother had the knowledge and understanding of running and ensuring the success of the academy.

Wanyama’s professional career dates back to Belgian side Germinal Beerschot AC in 2009, where he stayed at the club for two years before moving on to Scotland giants Celtic for another two years.

In July 2013 he moved to Southampton in July 2013 for £11.5m (about Ksh. 2 billion) before joining Spurs in the summer of 2016.