Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) is engaging in discussions with the Taita Taveta county government to establish a football academy in the region.
Having fully sponsored the Taita Taveta County Football Association league for the past two seasons, KPA has been impressed by the showcased talent.
KPA, who also sponsors Kenyan Premier League side Bandari FC, has been actively scouting for talent within the area. During the recent KPA-sponsored TTCFA mini-league final, Taveta sub-county’s Milan Youth FC emerged victorious in a penalty shootout against defending champions Gunners FC from Voi sub-county at Moi Stadium in Voi.
The event was attended by Governor Andrew Mwadime, KPA’s General Manager of Cargo Operations Sudi Mwasinago, representing KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto.
Mwasinago expressed the aim of nurturing grassroots talent, stating, “There are many talents that are hidden in the villages just because they have not had the opportunity to showcase what they’ve got. We might find a player more talented than Messi here but still unexposed.” He further revealed that talks have taken place with the county sports executive regarding the establishment of a football academy in Taita Taveta County.
Mwasinago emphasized the potential economic benefits of exposing hidden talents and exporting them to Europe, noting that Kenya possesses numerous undiscovered talents.
Governor Mwadime also highlighted the significance of such partnerships in advancing the county and empowering the youth, particularly in the absence of local industries.
He expressed the intention to establish another team from the region, Taita Taveta United, targeting the Kenyan Premier League, with the support of KPA.
While acknowledging the poor state of football infrastructure in the county, including the neglected Moi Stadium in Voi, Governor Mwadime revealed plans to attract investors for upgrading the stadium and other football grounds.
Despite contractors being owed over 1 billion shillings by the county government, Mwadime affirmed his administration’s commitment to leaving a legacy by upgrading Moi Stadium to international standards.
He mentioned allocating 3 million shillings for laying grass on the stadium, illustrating their determination to initiate improvements even on a smaller scale before considering a larger stadium project.
The collaboration between KPA and the Taita Taveta county government, along with their shared vision of promoting football talent and enhancing sports infrastructure, aims to provide opportunities for the youth and drive progress in the region.
