Salim Mvurya presides over key changes in Sports Development Fund
By Joel Masibo, March 4, 2026The leadership of the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund (SASDF), has officially changed following a formal handover ceremony held at Talanta Plaza in Nairobi on Wednesday, March 4, 2026.
The transition marks the beginning of a new chapter in the management of one of Kenya’s key funding institutions supporting sports and creative talent development.
Tuwei hands over
Retired Lieutenant General (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei formally handed over the chairmanship of the SASDF Board to George Kithi, who will serve a three-year term following his appointment on Friday, 6, 2026.
The ceremony was presided over by the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, and attended by government officials, board members, and stakeholders from the sports and creative sectors.
In his remarks, Cabinet Secretary Mvurya praised Lt. Gen. Tuwei for his exemplary leadership and dedication during his tenure, noting that his stewardship strengthened the Fund and enhanced its responsiveness in supporting Kenyan talent.
“I want to thank you for your service to the country. Under your tenure, our sportsmen and women were accorded dignity as the Government undertook the decisive step of securitising the Fund. This reform has ensured that federations receive better and timely disbursements, enabling athletes to prepare adequately and represent the nation with pride,” said the Cabinet Secretary.
Tuwei, in his address, expressed appreciation to the Government for the support extended to him throughout his term and reflected on the milestones achieved under the Board’s leadership.
“I am glad that together we managed to undertake meaningful and impactful work over the years. Talent has been nurtured, federations strengthened, and I am confident that the securitization foundation we established will give talented Kenyans an even better opportunity to thrive and compete globally,” he said.
Kithi takes charge
Welcoming the incoming Chairperson, CS Mvurya expressed confidence in George Kithi’s leadership and assured him of the Ministry’s full support in executing the Board’s mandate.
“Continue with the good work done by your predecessor. My office will accord you the necessary support even as you address the priorities within the Fund. Be steadfast and diligent in your leadership, and I am confident that under your stewardship the SASDF will continue to grow and deliver even greater impact for Kenyan sports and the creative sector,” the Cabinet Secretary stated.
SASDF has played a crucial role in financing Kenya’s participation in major international sporting events, facilitating athlete preparations, supporting sports infrastructure programmes, and reviewing the cash awards framework to promote fairness, sustainability, and recognition for Kenyan athletes who have excelled on the global stage.
Kithi assumes leadership at a pivotal time as the Government implements significant reforms within the Fund, including its securitization. The move is aimed at strengthening transparency, improving financial sustainability, and ensuring timely and efficient allocation of resources to sports federations, athletes, and cultural initiatives nationwide.
The Fund remains a cornerstone of the Government’s strategy to nurture talent, strengthen federations, promote cultural expression, and enhance Kenya’s global presence through sports and the creative economy by empowering athletes, artists, and cultural practitioners.