Mvurya Replaces Murkomen as Sports Cabinet Secretary

President William Ruto has appointed Salim Mvurya as the new Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports following a cabinet reshuffle announced on Thursday.

Mvurya succeeds Kipchumba Murkomen, who has been reassigned to the Interior Ministry, previously held by Kithure Kindiki, now serving as Deputy President. The appointment marks the third leadership change in the Sports Ministry within five months, following Ababu Namwamba’s earlier tenure

Mvurya, a former Kwale Governor, transitions to the Sports Ministry from the Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry. His extensive administrative experience is expected to bring fresh leadership and strategic direction to the Sports docket.

Top on Mvurya’s agenda is securing Kenya’s hosting rights for the Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025. With the Confederation of African Football (CAF) setting a December deadline for infrastructure readiness, the race is on to upgrade sports facilities to international standards.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe is currently in Kenya to inspect key sports venues in preparation for the tournament, set to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania in February 2025.

Mvurya’s appointment is seen as a critical step in ensuring Kenya meets CAF’s expectations and successfully hosts the high-profile continental tournament.