Kwale: The national government has announced a significant investment of Sh1.7 billion to establish 37 sports academies nationwide, aiming to nurture local talent and elevate the country’s sporting profile to international standards. Sports and Youth Affairs Cabinet Secretary (CS) Salim Mvurya emphasized the importance of these academies in identifying and developing grassroots talent, which will contribute to the nation’s economic growth through sports.

According to Kenya News Agency, CS Mvurya, while speaking in Kwale County, highlighted that the academies are designed to scout, nurture, and develop talents. They will also promote fitness and increase mass participation in sports and recreational activities among citizens. The sports academies are a part of President William Ruto’s agenda to engage the youth in sports, providing them with platforms for talent scouting and turning their skills into income-generating opportunities.

During the event, CS Mvurya, accompanied by Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi, Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, and County Commissioner Stephen Orinde, officiated the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Sh55 million Taru Sports Academy at Taru Secondary School and the Sh54 million Matuga Sports Academy at Matuga Girls Secondary School. These academies will cater to multiple sports, including athletics, basketball, netball, football, and volleyball, and will have facilities like changing rooms for athletes.

The government also plans to construct additional classrooms and a borehole at Taru Secondary School to benefit the surrounding community. Similarly, the Matuga Sports Academy will feature a modern athletics track and fields for various sports, along with the construction of two classrooms, a social hall, an elevated water tank, and a borehole.

CS Mvurya reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to enhancing youth well-being and supporting the growth of the sporting community. He instructed contractors to hire local residents, ensuring the projects uplift local livelihoods while promoting sports. Governor Achani expressed her administration’s commitment to positioning Kwale as a sports development hub, fostering talent discovery, and nurturing future champions. She noted that the modern sports academies would provide benefiting counties with opportunities to make a significant impact on the national sporting scene.