Kenya, NBA to build world-class multi-purpose basketball arena

Sports CS and NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi exchange pleasantries/ HANDOUT 

Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Salim Mvurya says the Government will fast-track plans with the National Basketball Association (NBA) to build a world-class multi-purpose basketball arena in Kenya, capable of hosting international competitions, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL).

Mvurya said the Government will prioritise identifying a prime venue for the arena as part of its broader sports development agenda, which seeks to modernise infrastructure, expand youth opportunities and prepare the country to host continental and global competitions.

“This arena will not only be a landmark for Kenya but also a beacon of opportunity for our athletes,” said Mvurya. He added that the investment in infrastructure with the plans of a world-class NBA will not only elevate the standards of athletes and create jobs, but also position Kenya as a regional hub for basketball. 

“It aligns squarely with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), where sports is a key pillar for youth empowerment, economic growth, and social cohesion. By partnering with the NBA, we are investing in talent, jobs, and Kenya’s future as a continental sporting hub.”

NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi, who led the NBA delegation in bilateral discussions, welcomed the Government’s commitment, saying the project would elevate Kenya’s status in global basketball.

“Kenya has all the ingredients to become a basketball powerhouse in Africa: talent, passion, and strong government support. This arena will be a game-changer, creating opportunities for local players and positioning Kenya as a premier hub for global basketball events,” Akamanzi said.

The NBA delegation commended the Government for creating an enabling environment for sports growth through goodwill, ease of doing business, and private sector partnerships.

 They noted achievements under the NBA’s existing partnership in Kenya, including the construction of two modern basketball courts at Kasarani and Kiambu that have become vibrant hubs for young players. NBA programmes have also been rolled out from junior schools to national leagues, focusing on talent identification, nurturing, and international exposure. 

Already, three Kenyan female players have earned spots in the WNBA, which the NBA described as evidence of Kenya’s growing potential. Mvurya affirmed the Government’s support for such athletes to ensure success on the global stage and emphasised the role of the Kenya Academy of Sports in grassroots talent scouting while urging continued collaboration with the NBA to expand programs in schools, strengthen leagues, and grow the game nationally.