Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports

All the best to our 🇰🇪 girls in their International Cricket Council (ICC) U-19 Women's T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier campaign in Kigali, Rwanda.

With 1 slot up for grabs, it's quite a task, but you have what it takes. Go for it!

Statement on the situation regarding the Kabaddi team
Peter K Tum

CS MURKOMEN CONFIDENT IN MEETING CAF DEADLINE AS RENOVATIONS AT KASARANI GAIN MOMENTUM

With renovations at Kasarani Stadium progressing rapidly, CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen made an unannounced visit today to assess the pace and quality of the work. This follows last week's inspection with CAF President Patrice Motsepe, as the Cabinet Secretary remains focused on ensuring the facility stays on schedule for timely completion.

The CS expressed satisfaction, noting the rapid progress and high standards of the rehabilitation efforts. "I'm pleased with the speed and quality of the work, and confident that we will meet our commitments to CAF," he remarked.

This visit highlights Kenya's commitment to upgrading its sports infrastructure, with Kasarani's readiness crucial ahead of upcoming CAF events.

CS MURKOMEN IMPRESSED WITH KIRIGITI STADIUM PROGRESS, CALLS FOR SELF-SUSTAINING SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE

Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing sports infrastructure, emphasizing its critical role in talent development and sustainable livelihoods. During an inspection of Kirigiti Stadium, Murkomen expressed optimism about the progress made and outlined plans to complete the facility, which has been under renovation for four years.

“I’m impressed by the work done so far, and we are now focused on finalizing key areas, including installing seating, setting up technology infrastructure, and completing the playing field,” said Murkomen during the visit. He was accompanied by area MP Machua Waithaka and Kiambu County Sports CEC Ali Korar.

Kirigiti Stadium, a historical site where founding father Mzee Jomo Kenyatta addressed his last rally before his detention, is set to become a hub for young athletes. “Kirigiti Stadium is an important national monument. It is our desire that in this stadium, our youth will find their socio-economic liberation through sports,” Murkomen added.

The CS announced plans to meet with Sports Kenya to finalize the completion date, review financing, and approve the necessary steps to bring the project to a close. Beyond its sporting potential, Murkomen stressed the need for the stadium to be self-sustaining by generating revenue. “Kirigiti has spaces that can be monetized, and I invite the private sector to join us in investing in our sports facilities across the country,” he said.

The inspection comes as part of the government's broader initiative to enhance sports infrastructure, ensuring Kenya is well-positioned to host national and international events while fostering local talent.

MEDIA INVITE

CS MURKOMEN URGES KRU TO INVEST IN YOUNG TALENT TO SECURE RUGBY'S FUTURE

Cabinet Secretary Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen has called on the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) to focus on developing young talent at the grassroots level, especially within the schooling ecosystem, to help grow rugby in Kenya. He made these remarks during a meeting with KRU officials, led by Vice Chairman Moses Ndale, who paid him a courtesy visit.

The CS who was flanked by Sport PS Eng. Peter Tum, highlighted that investing in grassroots development would ensure a strong pipeline of talent for KRU, helping Kenya maintain its competitive edge in the HSBC Sevens World Series and its regional rugby dominance.

He stressed the need for support in nurturing rugby talent nationwide, noting that the women's team, the Lionesses, should be equally supported to provide them with opportunities for growth and eke sustainable livelihoods.

The CS challenged the rugby leadership to forge stronger partnerships with the private sector to boost investment in the game, with the goal of elevating the sport in Kenya.

The team discussed preparations for the Safari 7s tournament, set for October 11–13, 2024, in Machakos County, focusing on enhancing its organization, promotion, and participation to solidify its status as a premier regional rugby event. They also reviewed Shujaa's upcoming participation in the World Rugby Sevens Series in Dubai (Nov 30–Dec 1) and Cape Town (Dec 7–8).

CS MURKOMEN ENGAGES IYF TO AMPLIFY YOUTH EMPOWERMENT EFFORTS

In line with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), the government continues to prioritize youth empowerment as a vital driver of national prosperity. The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports is committed to harnessing the full potential of Kenya’s youth, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to the country's economic success.

As part of this mission, CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen today held a meeting with Rev. Yohan Kim, Chairman of the International Youth Fellowship (IYF) East Africa Region, to discuss the expansion of youth empowerment initiatives. The meeting focused on strengthening the existing partnership between the Ministry and IYF, particularly through the free weekend academy courses that have already reached over 15,000 young Kenyans, equipping them with crucial life skills and boosting their employability.

CS Murkomen and Rev. Kim also explored potential exchange programs between Kenyan youth and the Republic of Korea, aimed at further enhancing their skills and broadening employment opportunities.

"I commend IYF for their positive outreach and the invaluable skills they are imparting to our youth. These partnerships are critical in shaping a skilled and empowered generation," said CS Murkomen.

The ongoing collaboration with IYF aligns with the government's larger objective of creating meaningful opportunities for youth both locally and internationally, as part of the comprehensive economic transformation agenda.

GOVERNMENT SEEKS UN PARTNERSHIP TO UNLOCK YOUTH POTENTIAL THROUGH INNOVATION AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT

With Kenya's youth making up over 70% of our population, addressing unemployment remains a key priority for the government. To this end, the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports is forging partnerships to empower this critical demographic and unlock their potential.

This morning, CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen met with the United Nations team in Kenya, led by UN Resident Coordinator Dr. Stephen Jackson, to explore collaborative opportunities, with a focus on creating tangible solutions for youth through skills development, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

“Our ministry is committed to partnerships that help address the challenges young people face,” said Murkomen. “With UN support, we can expand our impact, equip youth with essential skills for innovation and entrepreneurship, while contributing to the national development agenda.”

The CS highlighted that this partnership aligns with the government's BETA Agenda, which focuses on digital transformation and preparing youth for the digital economy by bridging the skills gap and driving youth innovation.

“Collaborative efforts like these are essential in ensuring young people become innovators and entrepreneurs, not just job seekers,” he added.

Dr. Jackson reaffirmed the UN's dedication to supporting youth-focused initiatives in Kenya, particularly in innovation and skills development. “The United Nations is committed to providing real opportunities for Kenyan youth to thrive and contribute to economic growth,” he noted.

Also in attendance were Dr. Anthony Ngororano (UNDP Kenya Resident Representative), Dr. Victor Bampoe (UNAIDS Country Director), Caroline Njuki (ILO Chief Technical Advisor), Hugue Ngandeu (UNESCO Youth Specialist), Dr. Tony Omwansa (CEO, Kenya Innovation Agency), and Raymond Ochieng (Secretary for Youth Development).

PRESIDENT RUTO FLAGS OFF JUNIOR STARLETS AHEAD OF U-17 WORLD CUP

President William Ruto this evening officially commissioned Kenya's U-17 women's team, the Junior Starlets, as they departed for a residential camp in Spain, before heading to the Dominican Republic for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, set to begin on October 16, 2024 to 3rd November, 2024.

The President, who was flanked by CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen and Sports PS Peter K Tum, hailed the team for making history as the first Kenyan side to qualify for any FIFA World Cup.

"When history of Kenyan football is written, your names will be inscribed in gold," President Ruto declared. "It has taken us 60 years to get here, and today, you are the trailblazers who made it possible."

The President urged the Junior Starlets to give their all in the tournament, to place Kenya firmly on the global football map.

"You are already history makers. Now, I challenge you to write the final chapter of this journey by bringing home that trophy," he added.

While appreciating the collaboration between the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports and the Ministry of Education, President Ruto reiterated his government’s commitment to grassroots talent development, noting the decision to allocate the Sports Fund exclusively for sports-related purposes.

CS Murkomen echoed the President’s sentiments, expressing gratitude for the government's backing, which has enabled talent development within the school system, with tangible success such as with the Junior Starlets’.

"The ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports invested over 300 million in schools games last year to facilitate the games and develop talents right from the grassroots in schools," he said. "This collaboration has also enabled these girls to represent our country globally while ensuring their education continues."

The CS noted that the world cup experience will be a door opener for many of the players enhancing their careers and future monetization of their football talents.

On her part, the Junior Starlets team Captain Elizabeth Ochaka thanked the government for its support, which ensured smooth preparations, including a residential camp abroad.

"We appreciate the government for supporting us during our training in Kenya and securing our camp in Spain. We promise to give our best and make Kenya proud at the World Cup," Ochaka affirmed.

GOVERNMENT TARGETS YOUTH EMPOWERMENT WITH NEW PROGRAMS SET FOR ROLLOUT UNDER BETA AGENDA

The government is intensifying efforts to empower the country’s youth through a series of transformative programs under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). These initiatives, aimed at creating employment, enhancing skills, and supporting entrepreneurship, are designed to provide sustainable livelihoods for young people across the country.

Among the flagship programs is the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA), which seeks to equip thousands of young Kenyans with hands-on experience, mentorship, and job opportunities, directly addressing the growing challenge of youth unemployment. Additionally, the WHOZNEXT talent search initiative is set to unearth and nurture young talents in all 47 counties, with the goal of positioning them at the center of Kenya's economic transformation.

During a meeting with senior officers from the State Department for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen, emphasized the importance of these programs saying: “We’re committed to empowering our youth by connecting them to real opportunities. NYOTA will significantly enhance skills, provide internships, and create jobs that will transform the lives of young entrepreneurs and innovators.”

The CS, who was flanked by Youth and Creative Economy Principal Secretary Ismail Maalim, highlighted the need for innovative thinking and coordination within government departments to align with the BETA Agenda. He urged the team to think creatively and develop solutions that address youth unemployment and economic challenges effectively.

“We cannot be limited by traditional approaches,” said Murkomen. “We need to mentor, train, and connect our youth to gainful employment in ways that truly make a difference.”

PS Maalim echoed the CS’s sentiments, assuring of the government’s commitment to long-term, youth-focused programs. “Our focus is on creating sustainable livelihoods and ensuring young people are an integral part of the country’s growth,” Maalim noted. He also mentioned the upcoming National Youth Council elections as part of the broader engagement with the youth.

The initiatives come at a time when the government is accelerating its efforts to tackle youth-related issues, including unemployment and skills gaps. Alongside NYOTA and WHOZNEXT, the government is investing in sports and the creative economy to foster talent and create new economic opportunities for the youth.

𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗧𝗢𝗗𝗔𝗬! Kenya Film Classification Board is conducting a stakeholder engagement forum dubbed: Creatives in Arts and Film Literacy (CAFIL) Program, for creatives drawn from Kisumu Region and its environs today Monday 16th September 2024 at the Tom Mboya Labour College, Kisumu County, starting at 9:00am. Welcome all!

CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen and CAF President Patrice Motsepe will this afternoon tour Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, and Talanta Sports City to assess Kenya's readiness for the 2027 AFCON tournament, as part of CAF’s ongoing inspection activities.

It’s Game Day!

CAF Champions League, second preliminary round
Gor Mahia 🇰🇪 vs 🇪🇬 Al Ahly (Egypt) at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi.

Another Time to bring the energy and focus to the ball. Let’s go

Kenya shines bright on the global stage once again!

Huge congratulations to our young star Faith Cherotich, the unstoppable Faith Kipyegon, and Beatrice Chebet, who shattered meeting records on the track, and Emmanuel Wanyonyi for their outstanding gold medal wins at the 2024 Diamond League in Brussels.

Match Day

We wish the best of luck in today’s game. Play with heart and give it all.

The State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy PS Ismail Maalim Madey is in Elwak, Mandera, holding sensitization meetings with youth, women, and elders to update them on National Government projects. His engagement will culminate with the football tournament finals this weekend.

Some crickect action for to kickstart your weekend. 🥳🥳

Our ladies have this week been in a bilateral contest with Rwanda in the ongoing Women's T20 bilatela series.

Make your way to the Sikh union and support our ladies this weekend😉

INTEGRATING SPORTS AND EDUCATION CAN FORGE THE COMPLETE ATHLETE, CS MURKOMEN SAYS

In a bid to cultivate well-rounded athletes, there is growing recognition of the need to integrate sports and education. CS Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen has emphasized the crucial role universities play in this vision, highlighting their importance in nurturing talent and supporting athletes to excel in all aspects of their lives.

“To develop complete athletes, we must bridge the gap between education and sports,” said CS Murkomen. “Athletes should be able to excel both on the field and in the classroom. Our goal is to create an environment that supports this dual achievement.”

Citing the success of global institutions such as Harvard and the University of Oregon in producing top athletes and distinguished graduates, the CS noted that his Ministry was committed to working closely with the Education Ministry to enhance this integration through strategic partnerships with universities.

“My Ministry is committed to expanding this integrated approach across various sports disciplines. We will work with the Ministry of Education to revolutionize athlete development and ensure they reach their full potential both academically and in sports,” he added.

CS Murkomen made the remarks during a meeting with the Council and board members of Multimedia University of Kenya. He acknowledged the Kenya Rugby Union’s success in integrating sports with academic pursuits, showcasing how athletes can excel in both areas.