Mvurya launches KSh. 55m sports academy project in Yatta - Machakos

The initiative is part of President William Ruto’s broader plan to construct 37 sports academies across the country in the phase 1 of the construction project at a cost of KSh.1.7 billion under the ambitious Talanta Hela programme.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, CS Mvurya said the academy will be a game-changer in nurturing and promoting sports talent among the youth in the region.

The project is estimated to cost KSh. 55 million and will feature football, volleyball, and netball pitches, alongside key amenities including a reliable water supply and a social hall.

“The government has demonstrated full commitment to the youth empowering agenda through investing in critical infrastructure that is at the heart of talent harnessing and development. We will build a football pitch here, a netball pitch, a volleyball pitch, a social hall plus adequate water supply, all this at a cost of KSh 55 million,” said Mvurya.

He added that the academy, once complete, will be officially inaugurated by President William Ruto, as part of the government's ongoing efforts to empower the youth and create opportunities through sports.

“The project once complete will be launched by President William Ruto and its intention is to identify and nurture the local talents we have so they can be exposed worldwide.”

Yatta Member of Parliament Basil Robert Ngui welcomed the development, describing it as a timely project for the constituency.

He said the initiative would not only boost talent development but also generate employment for local residents during and after the construction phase.

“Thanks to the Ministry for listening to the sports committee as we would not have this academy which will provide job opportunities to our youth and our constituents will be the first priority as a major boost for Yatta,” said MP Ngui.

The Talanta Hela initiative is one of the flagship programmes under the Kenya Kwanza administration aimed at transforming sports into a viable economic sector, tapping into Kenya’s rich pool of young talent.

The Yatta academy is expected to serve as a model Centre for excellence once complete.