Ruto: Kenya must return to the right league in sports

President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring Kenya’s rightful place in continental and global sports.

He said the country must no longer settle for mediocrity.

Speaking at a State House breakfast meeting with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and private sector leaders, Ruto said Kenya has the resources and talent needed to compete at the highest level, but only lacks strong leadership and a clear plan.

“We are in the wrong league as a country. Kenya belongs in a higher league, and we must get there,” the President said.

“That is why I instructed Ababu Namwamba (former Sports Cabinet Secretary) to bid for CHAN and AFCON. We want to use these platforms to showcase our sporting talent and create global visibility."

According to Ruto, whatever they are doing as a country is intentional and not guesswork noting there is a concrete plan in place.

He dismissed resource constraints as an obstacle, insisting that both government and the private sector can provide the needed support.

“Our challenge is not money. We have enough resources. What we need is leadership and a good plan. If we work together, we can take Kenya where it belongs,” he said.

The President praised FKF for presenting a roadmap for sports revival but emphasized that it must be a collective effort.

“This is not an FKF plan. It must be our plan, government, FKF, and the private sector. We must sit together and agree on a common path forward,” Ruto said.

The meeting brought together sports administrators and business leaders to deliberate on the future of football and the wider sports sector.

Ruto said private sector partnership will be crucial in elevating Kenya’s standards and ensuring young talents get opportunities to shine.