NAIROBI – In a significant move to honour and motivate the nation’s sporting heroes, His Excellency the President has announced a groundbreaking housing initiative for national athletes, headlined by a 50% government contribution towards homes for the celebrated Harambee Stars.
The announcement was made during a celebratory luncheon held at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, where the President hosted the national football team and other leading athletes. The event was convened to congratulate the Harambee Stars for their commendable performance at the recent CHAN tournament and to outline the government’s enhanced strategy for nurturing sporting talent.
The centrepiece of the new support package is a direct investment in the athletes’ futures. The government has pledged to cover half the cost of two-bedroom units under its Affordable Housing Programme for the players. Furthermore, it will facilitate access to affordable mortgages to help them comfortably settle the remaining balance.
“This is not just a reward; it is an investment in your future and your families,” the President stated, addressing the assembled athletes. “We are intentional and resolute in nurturing talent and building an ecosystem where our athletes can realize their full potential, inspire greatness, and conquer the world stage.”
The housing initiative is part of a broader, resolute commitment to revolutionizing sports in Kenya. The President detailed a two-pronged approach that includes massive infrastructure investment and a transformed reward system.
To provide world-class facilities, the government is heavily investing in the construction and renovation of modern stadiums across the country. Concurrently, in a move to truly honour the sacrifices of athletes, the national reward framework has been overhauled, with monetary awards for medal-winning performances raised more than fourfold.
The President concluded with a powerful call to action, urging sportsmen and women to continue pushing boundaries and aiming higher. “Keep believing in yourselves,” he said. “As a nation, we stand firmly behind you.”
This comprehensive package of financial incentives, infrastructure development, and direct asset-based support marks one of the most substantial commitments to athletes in recent history, signalling a new era of government backing for Kenyan sports.
