Nairobi: Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke has called on the youth to nurture their talents in sports, emphasizing that sporting opportunities can transform lives and pave the way for a brighter future. Speaking during the launch of the Etaya Tournament 2026 at Masakwe Comprehensive School in Kitutu Chache North Constituency, PS Isaboke encouraged young people to capitalize on sporting platforms to develop professional careers and engage in income-generating activities.
According to Kenya News Agency, Isaboke underscored the importance of grassroots-level sporting facilities and competitions such as the Etaya Tournament in the identification and nurturing of talent. He highlighted the government’s substantial investment in sports infrastructure to ensure that youth, including those at the grassroots level, can discover and monetize their talents. The ongoing Sh1 billion upgrade of Gusii Stadium was cited as evidence of this commitment.
Nyamira County is also set to benefit from a Sh900 million stadium as part of the government’s strategy to decentralize sporting opportunities beyond major cities like Nairobi. Isaboke pointed to the promotion of Shabana FC back to the top league after 17 years as proof that grassroots talent can reach the highest levels when provided with the right platform and resources.
In his capacity as Goodwill Ambassador for Shabana FC, Isaboke mentioned that the team stands to gain from the completion of Gusii Stadium and the recent donation of a team bus by the President. On the digital economy, he urged young people to explore content creation, sports media, and marketing opportunities linked to these facilities and events to boost their earnings.
Isaboke noted that over 8,000 youth across Kisii, Nyamira, and Migori, including those living with disabilities, have already received grants and skills support through NYOTA to build sustainable livelihoods. He also highlighted progress under the Digital Superhighway programme, which includes digital hubs across Kisii County and a planned Digital Centre of Excellence in Gucha South.
Addressing insecurity concerns, Isaboke called for concerted efforts from parents, schools, and communities to protect children and emphasize the importance of education. He stressed that education remains a key foundation for a brighter future and urged all stakeholders to ensure children stay in school.
Kisii Governor Simba Arati highlighted that the Etaya Tournament will bring together men and women from various villages to compete in sports and cultural events, with competitions culminating in county finals in December. The initiative aims to identify and nurture talent, empower communities, and promote unity.
Evans Achoki, Secretary of Administration in the State Department for Sports, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to partner with the Kisii county government in supporting the tournament. He encouraged young people to participate and utilize their talents, emphasizing that talent can create opportunities globally.
Solicitor General Shadrack Mose also addressed the gathering, calling for unity behind the Governor and the President in advancing regional development. He praised the ongoing infrastructure projects in Gusii as a reflection of the shared commitment between national and county governments to improve residents’ lives.
Also in attendance were Deputy Governor Elijah Obebo, area Member of Parliament Japheth Nyakundi, and his Nyaribari Chache counterpart Zaheer Jhanda, among other distinguished guests.
