President William Ruto has announced that the National Basketball Association (NBA) will construct 100 basketball courts across schools and communities in Kenya over the next decade.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to grow the sport of basketball and promote youth engagement in athletics.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, after meeting with NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum, President Ruto lauded the project as a game-changer for the country’s sporting landscape.
The meeting was also attended by five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher and U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman.
“The NBA’s decision to build 100 basketball courts in schools and communities will transform the lives of many young Kenyans and boost the sport’s popularity in the country,” President Ruto stated. He emphasized the importance of sports in fostering talent, discipline, and unity among young people.
In addition to the construction of basketball courts, the NBA is establishing its commercial hub in Nairobi, further solidifying the city’s status as a major destination for international investment.
“This commercial hub will be a significant boost for our economy and create more opportunities for our people,” Ruto added.
NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum expressed the organization’s excitement about expanding its presence in Africa and noted Kenya’s potential as a thriving basketball community.
“Kenya is a key part of our strategy to grow the game of basketball across the continent. We look forward to collaborating closely with local stakeholders to inspire and support the next generation of players,” Tatum said.
The involvement of legendary NBA figure Derek Fisher further underscores the commitment to nurturing local talent and raising Kenya’s profile in the world of basketball.
U.S. Ambassador Meg Whitman also highlighted the strong ties between the U.S. and Kenya, noting that the NBA initiative aligns with broader efforts to foster cultural and economic collaboration between the two nations.
The initiative comes at a time when Kenya is seeing increased interest in basketball, with local teams performing well in regional tournaments and more youth embracing the sport.
The establishment of NBA facilities and the Nairobi commercial hub is expected to significantly raise the level of the sport and create numerous opportunities for young athletes across the country.