By H, KNA
Kwale Governor, Fatuma Achani, has promised to commit more resources into sports development, to nurture talents in the coastal County.
Achani said the devolved government was expanding the scope of opportunities for local youths through sports.
The Governor described sports as an avenue to stamp-out joblessness, poverty and crime from the society, stating that the devolved government is out to harness the power of sports to uplift youth across Kwale.
She says the County will be investing in sports at the grassroots level to create a firm foundation and improve the lot of the young generation in talent development.
The Governors was speaking when she joined Ndembe City FC fans and residents, during their club celebrations in Gombato Bongwe ward, Msambweni Sub County.
She later graced Wellers Football Club Party at Kitsukwa village, Vanga Ward in Lunga Lunga Sub- county.
Achani was accompanied by nominated Senator, Raphael Chimera and County Executive Committee Members (CECM), Michael Mutua (Trade and tourism), Saumu Beja (Environment) and Hemed Mwabudzo (Water).
She said her Administration has made significant progress in sports and youth development, particularly through construction and operationalization of mini-stadiums across the 20 Administrative wards.
Achani also noted that the new Sh450 million state-of-the-art stadium in Kwale town is expected to elevate the status of the county in matters of sports.
The new multimillion shilling stadium was constructed by the national government in 2024 and features a football pitch, running track, basketball court and facilities for other ball games and is expected to have a transformative impact on sports in the County and the entire Coastal Region.
She emphasized that supporting sports through suitable infrastructure will establish Kwale as a potential sporting powerhouse.
“We have issued football kits and transformed several football clubs into limited companies so as to enable them secure county tenders,” she said.
Achani urged Ndembe City and Wellers FC and other clubs across Kwale to embrace the idea of forming companies to enable them access public tenders and do business with the County and other private institutions.
Achani commended the two clubs, saying it has enabled the youth to keep away from drug and substance abuse and engaging in crime.
Chimera welcomed focus by the County to identify and develop talents at the grassroots.
“We want the County to continue focusing on improving the performance of the Sports and Youth sector,” the Senator stated.
Chairman of Ndembe City FC, Mwamadi Tabu, promised that they were ready to walk the empowerment journey as advised.
On the other hand, Wellers FC Chairman, Juma Salim, commended the County for promoting sports and talent development, which continues to benefit the local youth.
Salim commended the County for turning its focus on sports, noting that the move would lift the youth out of idleness and instead engage in productive activities.