President Uhuru Kenyatta's commitment to fully fund Kenya's national sports teams has sparked optimism among athletes and federations. During the Beyond Zero Half Marathon at Nairobi's Nyayo National Stadium, the president announced the government would cover all costs for national teams, including uniforms and training equipment.
"Sports will take center stage in my government's agenda this year," Kenyatta stated. "Our athletes are the shining stars of Kenya, and all national teams—whether in netball, rugby, or other sports—will receive government support." The declaration followed a Kenya Sevens rugby team performance in Canada that highlighted chronic underfunding, with the squad losing matches against Fiji, Samoa, and Canada.
Kenya Rugby Union chairman Richard Omwela called the pledge "welcome news" but noted financial constraints had hindered results. "Our teams have struggled all season because we're running on empty," he said. Football Kenya Federation president Nick Mwendwa echoed concerns, citing delayed government funding for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and unpaid allowances for the women's team since October 2019.
Kenya Volleyball Federation secretary-general Ben Juma emphasized the need for Sh55 million to prepare teams for 2020 Olympic qualifiers and continental competitions. "If we get the resources, we will dominate internationally," he said. Kenya Golf Union chairman Lucas Maranga welcomed the directive but cautioned, "It’s easier said than done. We hope the fund is managed effectively." The president's 2017 promise of support remains unfulfilled, leaving federations skeptical about implementation.
