County Governments have been challenged to play an active role in development of sports at the grassroots.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 6th Kenya Inter-County sports at the Gusii Stadium, Prime Minister Raila Odinga who was the chief guest said counties needed to do more in nurturing sports talent.
While commending Governor James Ongwae for rebuilding the Gusii Stadium, Raila said countries that had succeeded in sports ensured kids between 7 and 12 years trained under professional guidance.
“Sport is important in building bonds between communities. It is regrettable that small countries like Togo and Gabon can qualify for the World Cup yet Kenya cannot make it. Counties can support nurturing of talent to stop sport from being a pedestrian venture,” said Raila.
“What the County Government has done at the Gusii Stadium is a magnificent effort that we must commend. I had discussed with the Governor about the state of this stadium and I am glad that from those ashes has risen this great facility,” added Raila.
Governor James Ongwae said he was proud to have successfully hosted KICOSCA games and pledged to invest more in development of sports facilities.
In the next phase, we plan to install a tartan track; build six additional spectator stands; build a separate warm up field, and facilities for both indoor and outdoor games like lawn tennis, swimming, badminton and squash; have sufficient parking space and stalls for curios and refreshments.
Kericho Governor Prof. Paul Chepkwony, Nyamira Senator Okongo O’Mogeni and Deputy Governors for Vihiga and Bungoma were present at the function.
Veteran sports men in attendance included former Harambee Stars strikers Henry Motego, George Sunguti and Elijah Onsika, 1972 Olympic gold medallist Charles Asati and Nyantika Mayioro.
