Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen Launches Taskforce to Overhaul Sports Sector
“The sports sector has long struggled with gaps in laws and policies, enabling corruption, favoritism, and mismanagement by federations,” Murkomen noted.
Cabinet Secretary for Sports,Arts and Creative Economy Kipchumba Murkomen. Photo/Kipchumba Murkomen.
Kenya’s Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has unveiled a Taskforce to review the Sports Act, 2013, in a bold move to address systemic issues plaguing the sector.
Speaking on Thursday, Murkomen underscored the longstanding challenges of corruption, favoritism, and mismanagement by sports federations, which have hindered the growth and integrity of Kenyan sports.
“The sports sector has long struggled with gaps in laws and policies, enabling corruption, favoritism, and mismanagement by federations,” Murkomen noted.
The Taskforce is mandated to develop a robust legislative framework that enhances transparency, aligns with the Constitution, and responds to the dynamic sports landscape.
By clearly defining the government’s role, the initiative seeks to streamline operations in key areas such as regulating sports academies, managing stadia, and restructuring government agencies to separate policy formulation from day-to-day operations.
Murkomen emphasized that the reforms aim to create a transparent, inclusive, and thriving sports ecosystem that positions Kenya as a global sports leader.
The Taskforce will conduct nationwide consultations to gather input from stakeholders, with a final report expected in six months.
“The team will identify priorities and deliver a framework to guide reforms. These changes, coupled with ongoing infrastructure upgrades and governance improvements, reaffirm our commitment to fostering a thriving sports industry,” Murkomen said.
This initiative is complemented by ongoing efforts to upgrade sports facilities across the country.
The government has prioritized modernizing stadia to meet international standards, creating opportunities for athletes to compete at the highest levels while attracting global events to Kenya.
Sports stakeholders have welcomed the move, describing it as a significant step towards restoring integrity in the sector. Critics, however, stress the importance of implementing the proposed reforms to ensure meaningful change.
The Sports Act, enacted in 2013, was initially designed to regulate and promote sports development in Kenya.
However, gaps in its implementation have contributed to persistent governance challenges, including financial mismanagement and inadequate support for athletes.
Murkomen’s focus on separating policy and operations is seen as a game-changer, as it could enhance accountability while enabling the government to better support athletes and grassroots initiatives.
The Taskforce’s recommendations are expected to shape the future of Kenyan sports, reinforcing its role as a source of national pride and economic growth.
The announcement marks a critical step in the transformation of Kenya’s sports sector, with hopes high that the reforms will deliver tangible and lasting impact.
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