Kenya’s sporting landscape is undergoing a major transformation under President William Ruto’s administration, following years of chronic underfunding and stalled projects. The success of CHAN 2024, coupled with infrastructural upgrades and fresh policies, has marked a new chapter for the country’s sports ecosystem.
Before Ruto assumed office in 2022, sports investment had long been neglected. His government placed sports at the heart of its manifesto, promising a dedicated ministry, grassroots talent development, sustainable financing, and world-class infrastructure. The agenda was not only about nurturing champions but also about boosting the creative economy and empowering the youth.
A significant milestone came with the creation of a stand-alone Ministry of Youth Affairs, Arts and Sports. Initiatives like Talanta Hela, grassroots tournaments, and nationwide scouting have unearthed new talent and inspired young athletes. For the first time in history, Kenya’s U17 girls’ team qualified for the World Cup, while U20 boys secured a spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The FIFA ban was lifted, live broadcasts of school games returned, and world-class facilities were prioritized.
The CHAN 2024 tournament showcased Kenya’s progress. Upgrades to Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums were completed, while the ambitious Talanta Sports City, a 60,000-seater arena under construction, represents the biggest infrastructural investment since the late 1980s. Beyond football, athletics, rugby, and other disciplines have benefited from increased government support, including a multi-million-dollar anti-doping program.
Financial rewards have also improved. Harambee Stars players received KSh 5 million payouts after CHAN 2024, while athletes like Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet were rewarded for world record achievements. A structured bonus scheme now guarantees incentives for medalists across all sports, providing both recognition and motivation.
However, challenges remain. The National Lottery, intended to sustainably finance sports and the arts, is still in its infancy. Stadium projects rely heavily on public–private partnerships, while fiscal constraints have already led to budget cuts. Governance issues within federations continue to hinder investor confidence, despite recent reforms.
Legislative proposals, such as requiring counties to dedicate at least one percent of their revenue to sports and enabling federations to register as companies, point to new avenues for sustainability. If matched with accountability and transparency, these efforts could cement Kenya’s position as a regional sports powerhouse.
Ruto’s administration has undoubtedly injected new energy and ambition into Kenyan sports. The coming years will determine whether this vision can be fully realized, making sports not only a source of national pride but also a driver of economic opportunity.
