 |
| Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen during training with youth at Olkalou AK Youth Development Training Camp |
Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Kipchumba Murkomen, has reiterated the government's commitment to nurturing and developing young talent in Kenya through robust support for youth training camps across the country.
The government’s initiative aims to create a structured pathway for youth engagement in sports, ensuring that talented individuals receive specialized training to enhance their skills and potential for future success.
While speaking over the weekend during his visit to training camps in Olkalou, Nyandarua County, and Kituro, Baringo County, where he highlighted the critical role of Athletics Kenya (AK) in identifying and developing young athletes.
With a network of 54 youth training camps nationwide, Athletics Kenya continues to serve as a breeding ground for future talent, providing an opportunity for young people to hone their athletic abilities in a supportive environment.
“This year, we have significantly enhanced funding for sports talent development programs,” Murkomen said. “The objective is to ensure more talented young people have access to specialized training, particularly in the holiday camps. Currently, 3,000 young athletes are undergoing intensive training at four centers managed by the Kenya Academy of Sports, while another 3,000 athletes under the age of 20 are being trained in the 54 centers operated by Athletics Kenya.” He added.
The Cabinet Secretary praised Athletics Kenya for its proactive role in youth development and emphasized the importance of continuing to produce world-class athletes in athletics. He acknowledged the need for consistent support to maintain Kenya’s dominant position in global athletics competitions.
"AK has long had plans in place for youth development programs, and as a ministry, we have come alongside them to provide the necessary resources," Murkomen said. "Our goal is to ensure that more young people have access to these camps, where they can receive quality training that sets them on a path to success.”
Murkomen said the government's support is a part of a broader policy aimed at cultivating athletic talent from an early age.
"The ministry’s strategic focus is on integrating sports development into schools, providing a sustainable foundation for talent identification and nurturing. By prioritizing youth development at the grassroots level, the government is working to ensure that Kenya remains a powerhouse in athletics for generations to come."
While speaking at Keringet, AK Youth Development Director Barnaba Korir expressed his gratitude for the government's support to these training camps.
He emphasized the crucial role such initiatives play in shaping young athletes' careers. “These camps are not just about training; they are about creating opportunities for young athletes to excel and eventually represent Kenya on the global stage,” Korir said.
He pointed out that several athletes who began their journey in the youth camps have gone on to compete successfully in junior races. “It is through such structured training that we have seen young athletes make remarkable strides, ultimately making a mark in international events and contributing to Kenya’s continued dominance in global athletics.”
