Kenya national assembly speaker wants sports fund to empower local clubs
The sports fund has received billions over the years, but the bulk has gone to national teams and infrastructure, leaving FKF Premier League teams and community-based clubs struggling financially.
Kenya.- Moses Wetang’ula, the Speaker of the National Assembly, has urged members of parliament (MPs) to review the Sports Act and reform the Sports Fund management to ensure local sports clubs benefit directly from the annual fund allocations.
Established by the Sports Act of 2013, the national sports fund collects revenue from sources like lottery and betting taxes to support sports development. However, a substantial portion is often allocated to national teams, stadium projects and administrative expenses.
According to Wetang’ula, the sports fund has received billions over the years, but the bulk has gone to national teams and infrastructure, leaving clubs to struggle financially. Now, the lawmaker wants the fund to invest more in local sports clubs, particularly those in the FKF Premier League and community-based teams.
Wetang’ula said: “We need to look again at the Sports Act and how the Sports Fund operates. A reasonable portion of the funds that parliament allocates should go directly to support clubs, helping them run their day-to-day operations, pay their players, get facilities, train athletes and nurture talent from the grassroots.”
The speaker made the comments on July 26, 2025, at a gala dinner hosted at Wanangali Sports Club in Mianga, Bungoma County, which was held to celebrate the top players at the AFC Leopards football club for their contributions in the recently concluded season.
Wetang’ula noted that sports clubs nationwide are grappling with persistent financial challenges that impact player welfare, training facilities and their capacity to compete in leagues. He pointed out that existing regulations lack clear provisions for direct funding to clubs, making it challenging for local clubs to access financial assistance.
The speaker tasked MPs on the Sports and Arts committee to drive reforms that would ensure the sports fund is distributed equitably. Wetang’ula believes that direct investment in clubs would significantly benefit the local sports industry, boost grassroots development and increase competitiveness in local leagues.
He said: “Kenya has immense talent, but without adequate support at club level, this potential remains untapped. If we deliberately empower clubs financially, we can strengthen the entire sports ecosystem from community tournaments to professional leagues and national teams.”
