Machakos: The Kenya Communications Sports Organisation (KECOSO) tournament commenced in Machakos, marking its 45th anniversary as a key platform for talent development, national cohesion, and youth employment in Kenya. Broadcasting Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke praised the tournament’s consistency and its role in producing international champions who have represented Kenya on the global stage.
According to Kenya News Agency, Isaboke highlighted the significance of KECOSO in his keynote address during the opening ceremony, commending the organization for maintaining the spirit of the games over the years. ‘I want to commend KECOSO for producing international champions and for keeping the spirit of the games alive for 45 years. This is no small feat,’ he stated.
The week-long inter-parastatal games, running from August 22nd to 29th, have attracted hundreds of athletes from key agencies in the communication and transport sectors, turning Machakos County into a hub of sporting activity and inter-agency camaraderie.
This year’s event sees participation from various entities, including the Kenya Rural Roads Authority, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, ICT Authority, Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Communications Authority of Kenya, Postal Corporation of Kenya, and Kenya Airports Authority, among others like the Kenya Ports Authority.
PS Isaboke noted KECOSO’s longevity as a success story many sporting organizations aspire to achieve. ‘The biggest success of KECOSO is consistent sustainability for 45 years. To run a tournament of this magnitude every year, without fail, for more than four decades shows true leadership, commitment and love for sports,’ he added.
Highlighting the tournament’s role in nurturing global talents like athletics legend Tegla Lorupe and football icon Mohamed Abbas, Isaboke linked its success to the government’s agenda of investing in sports infrastructure for unity and empowerment.
‘The government’s investment in sports infrastructure is unifying communities and nurturing world-class talent. It is through platforms like this that we identify, support and expose talent from the grassroots,’ he emphasized.
Moreover, Isaboke pointed out that KECOSO’s impact extends beyond accolades, providing critical livelihoods. ‘It has provided livelihoods. All these KECOSO sportsmen and women are employed within KECOSO Organisations. Our youths are getting employment through sports, and that is the true spirit of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,’ he stated.
KECOSO Secretary General Omole Asiko remarked on the inclusivity of this year’s edition, emphasizing its role in fostering interaction among state agencies. ‘KECOSO provides a platform for all organizations, from KPA, CA and many others, for all to come and interact together. It breaks silos and builds teamwork,’ he said.
Asiko also underscored the games’ scouting role for national teams and encouraged Machakos residents to support the athletes. ‘A lot of talent has been scouted and nurtured through KECOSO and it has provided a chance for county teams to participate and excel. Many players you see in our national leagues, today, were first seen here,’ he added.
The County Government of Machakos, represented by County Executive Agriculture John Mwangangi Kilonzo, expressed pride in hosting the games and highlighted the economic benefits and strengthened relationships that accompany such events. The competition includes disciplines like football, athletics, netball, volleyball, basketball, darts, table tennis, and pool.
