State commitment to nurturing sporting talent in Kenya - Ruto

President William Ruto watches as former Manchester United star Bastian Schweinsteiger autographs an Arsenal jersey during the reception of the UEFA Champions League Trophy at State House, Nairobi, on May 2, 2025. /PCS

President William Ruto has underscored the government’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent in Kenya.

The President noted that Kenya has an abundance of football talent, saying more focus is needed on identifying, nurturing, and developing it through conducive infrastructure, planning, and training.

"I want to assure Kenyans that the government is steadfast in its commitment to uplifting the standards of football in our country," he said.

Saying his administration will continue investing in sports, the President explained that Kenya will draw lessons from global football powerhouses to remain competitive on the world stage.  

He spoke at State House Nairobi, on Friday, during the reception of the UEFA Champions League Trophy.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, Footbal Kenya Federation President Hussein Mohammed and former Manchester United star Bastian Schweinsteiger were also present.

President Ruto said the government, in collaboration with other stakeholders, will continue to invest sufficient resources in nurturing football talent and revamping football infrastructure.

"I urge the Football Kenya Federation and all stakeholders to take lead in revitalising the game by nurturing talent from the grassroots to the national and international levels," he said.

The President explained that Kenya has an abundance of football talent, which requires focus on identifying, nurturing, and developing it through training, support and the necessary infrastructure.

"We also have much to learn from global football powerhouses like Germany - where Bastian comes from - about what it takes to consistently remain competitive on the world stage," he said.

At the same time, the president emphasized the need to make football and other sports a source of income and wealth, especially for young people.

"That is why the government came up with Talanta Hela, an initiative for monetising talents. Many of our youth have already benefitted," President Ruto pointed out.

He said he was pleased to note that Kenya is one of only five African countries selected to host the UEFA trophy during this year's tour.

"On behalf of the people of Kenya, let me say we are truly honoured to host the trophy once again given the tremendous and passionate support that football enjoys in our country," he said.

He thanked UEFA and Kenya Wine Agency Ltd for bringing the trophy to Kenya, saying it is a delight for football fans.

"Many of them may never have the opportunity to be in a stadium and experience the action firsthand. Simply seeing the trophy is, therefore, a very special moment for them," he said.