Wetang’ula backs direct support for grassroots clubs, calls for Sports Act review

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged lawmakers to amend the Sports Act to allow for direct funding of local sports clubs, arguing that the current model unfairly disadvantages community teams despite the billions allocated annually to the Sports Fund.

Speaking on Saturday during a gala dinner at Wanangali Sports Club in Mianga, Bungoma County—an event held to celebrate the achievements of AFC Leopards players—Wetang’ula said there is a need to reassess how sports funds are managed and distributed.

“We need to look again at the Sports Act and how the Sports Fund operates,” he said.

“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, access proper facilities, train athletes, and nurture talent from the grassroots,” the Speaker added.

Wetang’ula noted that while the Sports Fund is well-resourced—drawing revenue from betting taxes and lotteries—most of the money is channelled toward national teams, infrastructure projects, and administrative expenses.

As a result, he said, many grassroots and county-level clubs remain underfunded, which limits their ability to develop talent and grow sustainably.

“Kenya has immense talent, but without adequate support at the 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,” he warned.

Ensure equitable funding

He called on Members of Parliament, particularly those serving on the Departmental Committee on Sports and Arts, to lead efforts in amending the law to ensure equitable funding and create a structured framework for directly supporting local clubs.

Wetang’ula also urged collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Creative Economy and Sports, as well as Sports Fund administrators, to develop long-term financing models that guarantee consistent and inclusive support for clubs at all levels.

His remarks come amid growing concern from clubs across various disciplines—including football, volleyball, and athletics—over rising operational costs, dwindling local government support, and shrinking sponsorships that threaten their ability to compete and survive.

Backing Wetang’ula’s call, AFC Leopards Football Club President Boniface Ambani emphasised the importance of strengthening clubs as a foundation for national success.

“Direct funding to clubs would create a strong foundation for sustained sports excellence and broader youth empowerment,” Ambani said.