Government Bets on Youth Empowerment Through Sports and Jobs

By Beatrice Mose

Kenya’s youth remain at the centre of the government’s development agenda, with President William Ruto reaffirming his administration’s commitment to creating opportunities through investments in sports, the creative economy, affordable housing, digital innovation, infrastructure and overseas employment.

Speaking after hosting the 2025/26 National Super League champions, Migori Youth FC, at State House Nairobi, the President said empowering young people is key to securing the country’s future.

“We are empowering young people to contribute to the transformation of our nation and become the architects of Kenya’s future.”

President Ruto said the government is implementing a multi-sector strategy aimed at addressing youth unemployment by expanding opportunities across various industries. According to him, investments in sports, business support, affordable housing and the digital economy are already generating employment and opening new opportunities for young people.

“Our investments in sports, the creative and digital economy, overseas employment, business support, affordable housing, and infrastructure development are creating millions of jobs and other opportunities for our young people.”

The President noted that sports remains one of the government’s major priorities because of its potential to transform lives, nurture talent and create economic opportunities for young people across the country.

“In sports alone, we are building and upgrading 34 stadia across the country to support talent development and expand opportunities for young people.”

According to the Head of State, the investments are already producing positive results, both in sports and other sectors of the economy.

“These investments are already delivering results. Our athletes continue to win at the global stage while the Junior Harambee Starlets team has made history by qualifying for the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup.”

President Ruto made the remarks while congratulating Migori Youth FC following their successful campaign that saw them crowned champions of the 2025/26 National Super League. During the ceremony at State House, he presented the club with a team bus to ease transport challenges as they prepare to compete in league matches across the country.

“Hosted Migori Youth FC, the 2025/26 National Super League champions, at State House Nairobi, and handed over a bus to enable the team travel for their league matches across the country.”

The President also announced that the government is constructing a modern stadium in Migori County to support local talent development and provide improved sporting facilities for the wider community.

“In Migori County, we are building a modern stadium to provide the team and the wider community with quality facilities for nurturing local talent.”

The government’s continued investment in sports infrastructure forms part of a broader strategy to empower young people, create jobs and position sports as a key pillar of economic growth and national development.