Nairobi News

Those who recall how chaotic the sports scene was prior to Joe Okudo’s appointment as Sports Principal Secretary will agree he’s provided the much-needed breath of fresh air.

Prior to his arrival, reports of Kenya’s national teams stranded in foreign countries owing to poor planning and lack of funds were common.

At times, national team players could down their tools, stage sit-ins, while demanding allowances and other facilitations before taking the pitch in scenes that tainted the country’s image.

Since his appointment as the Principal accounting officer of the Sports Ministry, Okudo managed to streamline resources at the Sports Fund and ensure all teams representing the country are well taken care of.

Kenya is a renowned sporting giant, and thus the welfare of players is a priority in exchange for maximum returns.

The Sports Fund has also allowed federations to bring on board talented players from marginalized areas.

If the trend continues with Okudo at the helm we will likely witness better returns by the national teams.

Okudo has also been hailed for the move to improve sports infrastructure.

This comes a few years after Kenya has stripped the hosting rights of the 2018 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) after the tournament organisers ruled that the country lacks adequate stadia to host the football matches.

Following Okudo’s appointment, several facilities including the Kasarani and Nyayo Stadia have been spruced up, clearing the way for Kenya to host several international events in the athletics and safari rally disciplines.

Other stadiums that have been renovated and are ready for use include Kirigiti in Kiambu county, Jamhuri in Nairobi and Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Kisumu.

President William Ruto recently appointed Ababu Namwamba as the Sports Cabinet Secretary. His collaboration with Okudo could be the dose the doctor ordered to propel Kenyan sports to the next level.

The writer comments on topical issues