Murkomen boosts Rising Stars with Ksh 1.8 M donation, plans 30 sports academies nationwide

The Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Arts, under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, has donated Ksh 1.8 million to the Rising Stars as a token of appreciation for their successful qualification for the AFCON Under-20 tournament, which is set to take place in South Africa next year.

In preparation for the tournament, Rising Stars head coach Salim Babu emphasized the need for better training, noting that the team is stepping up to a more competitive level. Babu expressed the importance of holding pre-season preparations outside the country to enhance their performance.

"We are entering a new level, and the government has been very supportive. It would be beneficial for the team to train abroad," Babu said.

Meanwhile, Murkomen provided an update on the progress of various stadiums across the country, stressing the importance of maintaining and renovating these facilities to support the hosting of major tournaments and nurture local talent.

In a move to develop young athletes, the Ministry will oversee the construction of 30 football academies across the country. Murkomen confirmed that standardized designs for these academies have already been finalized.

“The Ministry will oversee the construction of 30 sports academies across the country. We have developed standardized designs for these facilities,” Murkomen said.

The cabinet secretary also highlighted plans to collaborate with schools that have a strong sports tradition, intending to identify talented players early and improve sports infrastructure nationwide.

"We will work with schools to enhance sports facilities and identify talent at a young age," Murkomen stated.