Kenya Ramps Up Sports Infrastructure as U-20 Football Team Heads to AFCON 2025
This commitment was underscored at State House during a flag-off ceremony for the national under-20 men’s football team, who are set to represent Kenya in the 2025 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The government has intensified efforts to develop sports infrastructure across the country, with a renewed focus on nurturing youth talent and elevating Kenya’s status on the global sports stage. Photo/William Ruto.
By Robert Assad
The government has intensified efforts to develop sports infrastructure across the country, with a renewed focus on nurturing youth talent and elevating Kenya’s status on the global sports stage.
This commitment was underscored at State House during a flag-off ceremony for the national under-20 men’s football team, who are set to represent Kenya in the 2025 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking during the event, President William Ruto reiterated his administration’s dedication to creating an environment where young athletes can thrive.
“We are setting up the right sports infrastructure to support our youth in harnessing and nurturing their talents,” he stated, emphasizing the government’s long-term vision to use sports as both a development tool and a commercial enterprise.
The President highlighted the success of Kenyan athletics as an example of what is possible when talent is supported strategically.
He now aims to replicate this success in football by professionalizing the sport, investing in talent development, and creating commercial value through partnerships and exposure.
“As a country, our prime focus is to elevate Kenya’s profile in global football and commercialise it just like we’ve done with athletics,” Ruto added.
During the ceremony, the Head of State officially handed over the national flag to the under-20 team, marking their readiness to represent the country on the continental stage.
The team has been drawn into Group B of the tournament, where they will face tough competition from Nigeria, Morocco, and Tunisia — all considered football powerhouses in Africa.
“We are proud of our young stars and confident in their abilities. They carry the dreams of a nation, and we believe they have what it takes to compete at the highest level,” the President remarked.
The 2025 AFCON Under-20 tournament presents a significant opportunity for Kenya to showcase its emerging football talent and gain valuable experience on the international scene.
It also aligns with the government’s broader ambition to boost youth engagement in sports and create professional pathways for future athletes.
Sports officials, coaches, and team members present at the event expressed gratitude for the support and vowed to make the country proud.
As the countdown to the tournament begins, Kenyans across the country will be rallying behind the team, hopeful for a strong performance and a new era for Kenyan football.
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