BY ANGELA R. KIURA
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Eastern Region officials have called on footballers to steer clear of divisive “one-term, two-term” political rhetoric and instead unite behind efforts to grow the sport through collaboration and sponsorship.
Speaking during the FKF Eastern Region Football Gala held in Embu, Regional Chairman Charles Njagi urged players to focus on talent development and remain open to partnerships from all quarters willing to uplift the game.
“Let’s stop the ‘Wantam’ and ‘Two term’ talks; it will not help us. What will help is what the government is investing in our young people,” Njagi said, cautioning that political divisions could discourage potential investors.
Njagi highlighted the government’s continued investment in sports infrastructure, citing upgrades to stadiums in Kitui, Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Meru, with additional projects underway in Isiolo and Marsabit.
He emphasized that unity between players, leaders, and sponsors is crucial to improving facilities and expanding opportunities for young talents.
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“With cooperation between players and county leaders, more facilities can be upgraded and more opportunities created,” he added, reaffirming FKF’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for players to thrive.
Meru County CEC for Sports, Gender, and Youth Affairs Elias Murega praised sponsors for their vital role in nurturing grassroots football, saying, “Mpira mashinani ni ngumu bila usaidizi wao (grassroots football is difficult without their support).”
Murega lauded the government’s increased support for sports under President William Ruto’s administration, particularly through backing the Harambee Stars, and urged players to appreciate ongoing progress.
“The government has supported sports more than ever before. Unless we appreciate small efforts, we can never appreciate big ones,” he noted.
He also pushed for the reinstatement of a portion of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations for sports, saying such policies would boost grassroots football development.
Fredrick Njue Nyaga, representing State House, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting all sports disciplines through improved infrastructure and better incentives for players.
The colorful gala night celebrated top performers across the eight Eastern Region counties — Embu, Isiolo, Kitui, Machakos, Marsabit, Meru, Makueni, and Tharaka-Nithi — recognizing outstanding players, coaches, referees, teams, and football influencers.
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