The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has committed to continue supporting youth talent development through sponsorship of sports and recreation activities in the coastal region.
Through its Corporate Social Investment initiatives (CSI), the Authority has allocated resources that will tap into the vast region, identifying and nurturing budding potential in young aspiring sportsmen and women.
Led by the Managing Director (MD) Captain William Ruto, KPA hosted the Taita Taveta super league, a flagship league by the authority that brought together grass root teams from select Sub-Counties across Taita Taveta.
Ruto acknowledged the significance of sports and enterprise development giving credence to the impact that both have in changing the lives and fortunes of communities. He said the impact sports have extends beyond the fields and has influenced different realms in society including healthy living and well-being.
“To harness the benefits of the sports industry and ensure our youth thrive in it, it is essential we identify and nurture their talents. Sports can shape communities and contribute to economic growth and prosperity” said Ruto.
The MD further gave an assurance that under his stewardship the Authority will broaden the aspects of community-based development initiatives that encompass all spheres of human development and touch the lives of residents in the region at an individual level.
“Our investment in human capacity will be encompassed at all levels of development. We will continuously invest in areas ranging from education to the health sector. We aim to alleviate social-economic challenges and support the communities we serve” added Ruto.
The KPA Super League in its second season had 32 teams. Milan Youths were crowned the champions after beating the defending champions Gunners 8-7 in post-match penalties.
The champions pocketed Sh200,000, the first runner’s up 100,000, and the third and fourth got Sh60, 0000 and Sh40, 000 respectively.
On his part, Taita Taveta Governor Andrew Mwadime thanked KPA for sponsoring and hosting the league in his County.
“We have been collaborating with KPA in medical camps, schools, and sports. We are in the process of crafting a Taita-Taveta united team.
We have initiated talks with development partners to renovate dilapidated stadiums and build new ones,” said Governor Mwadime adding that Sh3M has been allocated to renovate the Moi stadium in Voi.
Eric Kiongo, Chairman of Taita-Taveta Football Association said the league aims to identify, nurture and expose talents in Taita.
“The ebullience witnessed since the revival of football in the county by KPA has made football enthusiasts happy. Three youths were selected by Bandari Football Club, they also got full academic scholarships,” said Kiongo.
By Andrew Hinga
