Busia: A new chapter in youth sports development has begun at Igara Secondary School as leaders and stakeholders gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Sh55 million Igara Complex Sports Academy, a project set to nurture and transform raw talent into national athletic pride.
According to Kenya News Agency, the modern facility, which is part of the Ministry of Sports’ initiative to establish at least one sports academy in every constituency through the Kenya Academy of Sports and Busia County leadership, is designed to serve as a high-performance training and development hub for young athletes across various disciplines.
Speaking at Igara Secondary School, John Okwemba, the Director of Research at the Kenya Academy of Sports, highlighted the benefits residents will enjoy with the presence of the facility, including training, investment, and entertainment. “The identification of talent, its development through organized training programs, and exposure to regional and global platforms are our primary goals,” said Okwemba. He added that the facility will stimulate economic development in the area by attracting different investors, thus empowering the Igara area and Nambale subcounty.
The Kenya Academy of Sports (KAS) is undertaking a nationwide project to construct 37 Constituency Sports Academies, with a total budget of Sh1.7 billion. These academies aim to identify, nurture, and develop young sports talents across the country. The project includes equipping the academies with facilities for various sports like netball, volleyball, football, basketball, and athletics.
Eugene Okello, the Busia County FKF Chairman, shared his thoughts on the transformative effects the sports academy would have on the basic levels of football and general sports in the county and nation. “This project is a breakthrough for talent development in Busia. This county has always been a region with unutilized skills. With these facilities, we can now cultivate that skill and create stars on national and international levels,” noted Okello. He urged county coaches to focus on girls’ soccer and rugby, which have instant rewards.
Busia County Women Representative Catherine Omanyo, also a member of the Sports Committee in the national assembly, echoed these sentiments and urged stakeholders and the public to support talent development by embracing different sporting activities. “We must support and believe in our young people. This academy is not just a structure but a promise to every child in Busia that their talent matters and will be nurtured,” said Omanyo.
When completed, the Igara Complex Sports Academy will symbolize hope for youth athletes in Busia, providing the region with training facilities, accommodation, learning spaces, and professional coaching. Hon. Elsie Muhanda, speaking on behalf of CS Sports Salim Mburia, noted the government’s commitment to constructing 290 sports academies across all 47 counties. She remarked that the Nambale residents are fortunate to be among the first phase of the 55-million-shilling sports academy.
“This initiative is expected to not only elevate Kenya’s sporting prowess beyond its renowned running tradition but also stimulate the local economy by creating construction jobs and providing a community hub. As part of a broader government strategy, this academy signifies a commitment to developing youth sports infrastructure and fostering the next generation of Kenyan athletes for global competition,” said Hon. Elsie.
The project will last eight months before being handed over to the community for use. Residents urged the contractor to maintain high standards and ensure that 70% of the labor force comprises locals.