Why Wetang’ula wants MPs to increase sports funding
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Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 07.12.25. | 14:59
Wetang’ula made the call in a statement issued on Saturday, 6 December, a week after attending the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run in Uasin Gishu County
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged Members of Parliament to scale up budgetary support for sports, arguing that Kenya’s global athletic success must be matched by stronger investment at home.
Wetang’ula made the call in a statement issued on Saturday, 6 December, after attending the Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run in Uasin Gishu County.
He joined the community event at the invitation of Farouk Kibet, Personal Assistant to President William Ruto.
The Speaker said athletics continues to serve as one of Kenya’s most powerful symbols on the international stage, often lifting the country’s image through world-beating performances.
“Athletics is, without question, one of our country’s greatest ambassadors. Around the world, in major international capitals, our National Anthem has been played with pride because of the tenacity, determination and unwavering spirit of our athletes,” he said.
Wetang’ula described Kenya as a nation “blessed with talent that knows no boundaries,” adding that every medal won abroad reinforces national pride.
“It is always inspiring to watch our sportsmen and women shine on the global stage. Each victory by our boys and girls fills me with immense pride as a Kenyan,” he said.
Reflecting on the Chepsaita event, Wetang’ula praised the organisers for creating a platform that nurtures runners across various age groups, noting that such initiatives play a key role in sustaining Kenya’s sporting heritage.
“It provides a meaningful platform for nurturing talent across different age groups and strengthening our rich sporting heritage,” he said.
The Speaker called on lawmakers from across the political divide to prioritise increased funding for sports programmes, training structures and youth development pathways.
He said investment in sports should be viewed not as an expenditure, but as a long-term asset for the country.
“In my capacity as Speaker of the National Assembly, I urge Members of Parliament to continue allocating more resources to sports.
Investing in talent development is investing in our country’s future, and we must remain committed to supporting sporting activities at all levels,” he said.
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