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Govt intensifies sports infrastructure drive to unlock youth talent
02nd June, 2026 05:55 PM
The government is accelerating investment in sports infrastructure across the country as part of a broader strategy to transform Kenya’s sports sector into a key driver of economic growth and youth empowerment, Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has said, as the country prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Uganda and Tanzania under the Pamoja banner.
According to Mwangi, the rapid growth being witnessed in the sports sector is aimed at creating an enabling environment that nurtures and supports the sustainable development of young sporting talents across the country.
“The monumental growth in Kenya’s sports sector is envisioned to create a conducive environment that will nurture and promote the sustainable development of sporting talents amongst Kenya’s youth,” Mwangi said via Facebook on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
The PS noted that the government’s vision is anchored on the construction and modernisation of sports facilities that meet international standards. These facilities are expected to provide athletes with the necessary platforms to train, compete and excel both locally and globally.
To ensure that sports development reaches every corner of the country, Mwangi revealed that the government is rolling out sports infrastructure projects in all counties. These include the construction of stadiums, sports academies and community training grounds designed to support holistic sports development.
Grassroots talent development
“To spur the growth and inclusivity in the development of sports across Kenya, the government is setting up sports infrastructure in every county; a stadium; a sports academy or a community training ground to facilitate the holistic sports development,” he noted.
He emphasised that the initiative seeks to promote inclusivity by giving young athletes access to quality training facilities regardless of their geographical location.
Mwangi further highlighted the importance of collaboration among government institutions in delivering the ambitious sports agenda. Through a Whole-of-government approach, the Ministry of Sports continues to work closely with other ministries and agencies to develop world-class sports facilities that align with the government’s objective of commercialising sports.
The move is expected to position sports not only as a source of national pride but also as a significant contributor to the country’s economy through job creation, investment opportunities and talent development.
Recognising Kenya’s long-standing reputation as a global sporting powerhouse, particularly in athletics, Mwangi said the government remains committed to safeguarding and enhancing the country’s status through strategic investments in infrastructure and the rehabilitation of existing facilities.
He noted that upgrading and refurbishing sports venues is critical in ensuring athletes have access to modern facilities capable of hosting international competitions and supporting elite performance.
“This is the transformation of the sports sector,” Mwangi stated.
