President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday received the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy at the State House and said its presence is an inspiration to the country’s football fraternity.
The President said the unveiling of the FIFA World Cup trophy in the country was also a great motivation for the youth to achieve greater football success.
This is the third time Kenya is hosting the coveted trophy, with earlier stops in 2010, 2013 and 2018.
“The FIFA World Cup remains the greatest sporting extravaganza in the world. It is, therefore, a moment of great privilege and profound honour for Kenya as we officially receive the FIFA World Cup Trophy,” Uhuru said before the 18-carat gold trophy was unveiled.
Even though Kenya’s fortunes in football has not been bountiful, Uhuru said football is still a strong part of the country’s national fabric and it remains the most popular sport.
Uhuru affirmed State’s commitment to continue making the requisite public investments to boost the country’s chances of qualifying and winning the World Cup.
"I thank FIFA and all its partners for making this global tour a possibility and the stop in Kenya, a reality,” Uhuru said.
Coca Cola East and Central Africa Franchise Vice President Debra Mallowah said Kenya is one of the nine countries selected to be part of this season’s Fifa World Cup trophy tour.
“The Fifa World Cup trophy tour is an extra ordinary opportunity to bring Kenyans together, taking a piece of football history and share a passion for the sport with each other. Indeed, football has the power to unite us all,” Mallowah said.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed also spoke at the event attended by Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua and CS Betty Maina (Industralization) and Najib Balala (Tourism) among other senior government officials.
Before unveiling the World Cup trophy, Uhuru was treated to two captivating display football matches.
In the first match, Harambee Stars former legends led by captain Musa Otieno beat Coca-Cola FC 1-0 while in the second, Wasafi FC drew with State House Soccer Academy 1-1.
