Stakeholders in the sports industry have urged the government to strengthen efforts in nurturing youth talent at the grassroots, warning that neglecting children’s abilities denies the country future champions and exposes the youth to destructive habits.
Speaking in Ruiru during the launch of the Royal Stars Volleyball Academy that trains young volley ballers, the stakeholders stressed that failure to invest in children’s skills at an early stage often leads to wasted potential.
Led by Mount Kenya University Council Chair, Dr Vincent Gaitho and the academy founder, Hellen Gichuru, the stakeholders noted that without guidance, many young people drift into drugs, antisocial behaviour, and hopelessness.
“When we don’t unlock talents, young people become wasted as they will go into drugs, become antisocial and destroy their potential,” said Dr Gaitho.
They called on the government to put in place systems that support all sporting disciplines including construction of sporting stadia, equipping the facilities and motivating sports talent through marketing them locally and abroad.
Commending the moral and financial support extended to the national football team, Harambee Stars, during the recent African Nations Championships (CHAN), they proposed that such assistance be broadened to other sporting disciplines as well.
“While we commend the government for the support, it is good to put in place systems that encourage all sporting activities. It should not be seen to discriminate but support all children and youth in every sport,” he added.
Ms Gichuru decried the lack of sports facilities such as gyms and playing grounds, particularly in peri-urban areas like Ruiru, noting that the academy only thrives through the goodwill of well-wishers.
Community leader, Emily Warutere, pointed out that many talented youth miss opportunities due to the absence of mentorship and infrastructure.
She challenged universities, county governments, and the national government to emulate institutions like Harvard University, which awards scholarships to talented athletes.
“There are many cases of talented people who lost the chance to develop their skills because they had not been nurtured, which left them hopeless, yet they had the potential to excel,” she said.
The Royal Stars Volleyball Academy will train children aged seven to 16 years, preparing them for professional careers and opportunities in established clubs.
At the launch, the young players were visibly excited as they received branded uniforms, a gesture meant to inspire them to stay committed.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that the academy will provide purpose, direction, and opportunities, steering children away from vices that threaten their destinies.
by Kelvin Kathurima & Muoki Charles
