Kenya and France Ink €60 Million Agreement to Boost Sports Infrastructure and Talent Development

Kenya and France have reaffirmed their commitment to a €60 million (KSh 9 billion) sports development partnership aimed at enhancing infrastructure, nurturing talent, and promoting inclusivity in the sector.

The Ministry of Sports, in collaboration with the French government, announced the investment program, which will focus on upgrading sports facilities, supporting young athletes, and fostering social inclusion among youth, women, and vulnerable groups.

Speaking after a meeting with French Ambassador to Kenya, Sports Cabinet Secretary (CS) Salim Mvurya lauded the initiative, noting that beyond infrastructure, the collaboration would open doors for talent exchange programs.

“The Ministry is committed to ensuring Kenya maximizes the potential benefits from this collaboration, including knowledge transfer and enhanced sports management,” Mvurya stated.

Athletics and Basketball Initiatives Highlighting France’s strong involvement in Kenya’s sports ecosystem, CS Mvurya praised ongoing projects in Iten, Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The Municipality of Miramas Bouches-du-Rhône in France is spearheading a key initiative where 12 Kenyan athletics coaches will participate in a six-week exchange program starting in March 2025.

“The House of Coaches program will facilitate the exchange of best practices, enhance capacity building, and create a platform for talent scouting,” Mvurya explained.

In addition, the French Development Agency (AFD) and the National Basketball Association (NBA) will co-host a Basketball in Wheelchair summit in Nairobi.

The event will bring together athletes, coaches, and key stakeholders from across the globe to advocate for equal opportunities and promote inclusivity for athletes with disabilities.

The partnership underscores Kenya’s growing position as a sports powerhouse, with international collaborations set to enhance the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.