This archive report was first published on 18 May 2020.
On May 18, 2020, the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Heritage in Kenya received a Ksh 5 million donation from sports betting firms to support athletes affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The donation is part of the ministry's stimulus programme aimed at cushioning sportsmen and women in Kenya during the pandemic.
CS Amina Mohamed expressed gratitude to the sports betting firms for their contribution, stating that the funds will be disbursed in the next few days after identification and vetting of athletes in collaboration with all federations.
‘On behalf of the Ministry, I wish to sincerely thank our sports partners for their contribution at this very crucial time and for other essential interventions undertaken by the Firms individually,’ said CS Amina Mohamed.
She added that the ministry will prioritize athletes who do not have any other source of income, those signed up with national teams, and active Team Kenya players.
PS Joe Okudo thanked other well-wishers who continue to support athletes through provision of food rations, distribution of foodstuff, and direct financial support.
Leon Kiptum, CEO of Betway and Chairperson of the Sports Betting Firms Covid-19 Stimulus Initiative, thanked the ministry for its timely involvement to cushion athletes for the economic shocks of the pandemic.
