President William Ruto has defended his government’s investment in sports, saying ongoing stadium projects across the country are creating opportunities for young people and helping unlock their potential.
The President spoke on Monday at State House, Nairobi, where he hosted players and officials of Migori Youth FC following their promotion to the FKF Premier League after winning the 2025/26 National Super League title.
During the meeting, Ruto handed the club a new team bus to ease transport challenges as they prepare for life in the country’s top flight.
He said the government is constructing and upgrading 34 stadiums across the country as part of a wider plan to support sports talent while creating jobs for thousands of young Kenyans.
“We are empowering young people to contribute to the transformation of our nation and become the architects of Kenya’s future,” Ruto said.
He added that investments in sports, the creative economy, digital jobs, overseas employment, affordable housing and business support are already opening up new opportunities for the youth.
The President said the sports sector is beginning to bear fruit, pointing to Kenya’s recent success on the international stage.
He cited the Junior Harambee Starlets, who recently made history by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA Under 17 Women’s World Cup after defeating Cameroon in the final qualification round.
The achievement marked Kenya’s second appearance at the global tournament after their debut in 2024.
Ruto also congratulated Migori Youth FC for earning promotion to the FKF Premier League for the first time in the club’s history.
He said the government is building a modern stadium in Migori County that will not only benefit the club but also help identify and nurture young talent from the region.
The President noted that improved sports infrastructure will provide training grounds for athletes while creating employment opportunities during construction and after completion through sports related businesses and events.
Migori Youth FC secured promotion after finishing top of the National Super League standings, earning an automatic slot in the 2026/27 FKF Premier League season.
The club now joins Kenya’s top tier at a time when the government says it is stepping up investment in sports infrastructure ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Kenya will co host with Uganda and Tanzania.
Ruto maintained that continued investment in sports is not just about producing champions but also giving young people a chance to build careers and improve their livelihoods.
