Kisii County will host the 40th edition of Kenya Sports and Communications Sports Organization (KESOCO) in August this year.
Members of the KESOCO governing council on Thursday paid Governor James Ongwae a courtesy call in his office to deliberate on preparations for the games, areas of partnership among other issues.
Ongwae noted that KECOSO is among the oldest entities in Kenya and has played a role in promoting sports, cohesiveness and teamwork at the work place.
The Governor promised that his administration through the department of Sports will accord the council maximum support to make the weeklong event a success.
“I am aware that Kisii will host KECOSO for the second time having hosted the same in the year 1993. Records show that the games held 26 years ago were successful and I assure you that the upcoming event will be one of the best,” said Ongwae.
Ongwae reiterated the County government’s commitment to promote sports by giving a facelift to sports facilities and nurturing young talents.
“The Gusii Stadium is totally changed. We have built a perimeter fence, a VIP pavilion, two other pavilions for spectators, VIP washrooms, an inner perimeter fence among other facilities. We hosted the KICOSCA games last year and earned accolades from President Uhuru Kenyatta,” said the Governor.
Deputy Governor Joash Maangi was optimistic that the upcoming games which will be held from from 10th to 17th August will be a precursor of reviving sports in the county.
“It is my hope that these games will reengineer the interest of Kisii County residents in sports. The County has previously produced celebrated sportsmen,” said the Deputy Governor.
KECOSO chairman Bildad Kisero disclosed that the County was picked as a host of the incoming games based purely on merit.
“A spot-check revealed that the County has good sports facilities like the Gusii stadium and the Kisii Sports Club is arguably among the best in Western Kenya,” said Kisero.
He said that a team from Kecoso has been around the county to evaluate the potential in the area and appreciated the unmatched hospitality and support from the County Government and residents.
Kisero was accompanied by his Secretary General Omole Asiko, Assistant Secretary Samwel Wanjohi, Treasure John Tanui among other officials.
KESOCO is a recreational corporate social responsibility initiative brings together employees from various ministries including that of Transport, Infrastructure, Housing, Urban Development, Information, Communication, and Technology, Sports and Heritage.
Other organisations include; Kenya Ports Authority, Postal Corporation of Kenya, Kenya Ferry Services, Kenya Film Classification Board, Kenya Maritime Authority, Kenya Airports Authority, Communication Authority of Kenya, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and Kenya Broadcasting Corporation.
Participants will compete in various disciplines including Basketball, Darts, Table Tennis, Snooker, Darts, Football, netball, volleyball and golf.
