Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has initiated a comprehensive review of Kenya’s national sports policy and legal framework, launching a week-long public participation process to gather stakeholder input across the country. The collected views will be consolidated and presented to parliament for ratification.
Speaking at the Stadion Hotel in Kasarani, Mwangi emphasized the significance of this exercise in reshaping Kenya’s sports landscape. “This public participation forum marks a pivotal moment in reimagining the future of sports in Kenya, reinforcing our commitment to enhancing the sporting industry to meet its full potential,” he said. He urged all Kenyans and stakeholders to actively contribute to the process, highlighting the importance of their input.
Mwangi described sports as more than just competition, calling it a national identity, a source of livelihood, and a vital asset. He acknowledged that despite Kenya’s rich sporting history, the sector remains fragmented and underperforming. To address this, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, under the guidance of the Cabinet Secretary and with presidential approval, formed a National Taskforce to review the National Sports Policy and Sports Act.
The review will cover critical areas such as sports governance, athlete welfare, infrastructure development, commercialization, inclusivity, grassroots sports, talent development through education, international engagement, climate sustainability, and the integration of technology like AI in sports. Institutional reforms targeting organizations like Sports Kenya, the Kenya Academy of Sports, and the Office of the Sports Registrar are also under consideration to enhance efficiency and commercial alignment.
“This is not just a formality but a democratic process rooted in Article 10 of the Constitution, which values public participation,” Mwangi stated. “We are shaping a generational blueprint, and every voice matters.” He clarified that the Sports Act is not being entirely overhauled but refined to address gaps and improve its effectiveness.
The launch event saw participation from representatives of Athletics Kenya, Kenya Volleyball Federation, Kenya Karate Federation, Tae Kwon Do Federation, Sports Journalists Association of Kenya, persons with disabilities, schools, and county sports officials from Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado. Athletics Kenya President Jack Tuwei called for free access to government sports facilities for athletes and urged counties to take a more active role in sports development.
