Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Kipchumba Murkomen, has been vocal about his stance on the monetization of sports in Kenya. His approach is centered on transforming sports from a social function into a business-oriented sector, tapping into the economic and employment opportunities that come with it. According to Murkomen, the current model, where sports in Kenya are largely treated as a social affair supported by the government, is unsustainable. Instead, he advocates for the privatization of sports, urging key stakeholders to invest in the industry and allow it to thrive commercially.
Murkomen’s push for monetizing sports was reinforced during his recent appearance in Parliament, where he addressed various issues within his ministry. One of the main topics of discussion was the future of sports funding in the country, with the Sports CS emphasizing the need to shift away from the government being the primary financial backer of sports activities. He argued that sports should not rely solely on public funds but should instead seek revenue from private sponsors and investments.
This strategy, Murkomen believes, would not only elevate the standards of sports in the country but also open up opportunities for job creation, economic development, and infrastructure improvements. The Cabinet Secretary’s comments were made at the unveiling of the CAC Road Cycling African Championship, an event that further underscored his belief that the government should only be involved in sponsoring athletes at major international competitions, rather than funding day-to-day sports activities or events.
One of the key points Murkomen highlighted is the need for Kenyan sports teams, especially in football, to commercialize their operations. He pointed to Kenya’s most prominent football clubs, Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards, as prime examples of organizations that should capitalize on the commercial potential of the sport. According to Murkomen, these clubs should focus on owning their own stadiums as a means to increase their revenue streams and lessen their dependence on the government.
Murkomen’s comments reflect a broader vision for sports in Kenya, one that sees the sector as a catalyst for economic growth. By embracing a business-oriented model, sports clubs and organizations can become self-sustaining entities that generate income through ticket sales, sponsorship deals, broadcasting rights, and merchandising. The CS believes that this model can transform sports from being a cost center for the government to a profitable industry that contributes to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
However, this push for privatization has not been without its challenges. Many sports administrators in Kenya remain cautious about the feasibility of this approach, citing concerns about infrastructure, governance, and the current state of sports management in the country. Some argue that the sports sector is not yet mature enough to fully transition into a commercial enterprise without continued government support, especially in terms of infrastructure development.
In response to these concerns, Murkomen has stressed the importance of creating the right environment for private investment in sports. This includes reforming sports governance, improving accountability within sports federations, and ensuring that funds meant for sports development are used effectively. The Sports CS is keen on ensuring that sports federations adhere to principles of good governance and transparency, as these are critical for attracting private investors who need assurance that their investments will be properly managed.
One of Murkomen’s proposals is to establish a framework that encourages public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the sports sector. Through such partnerships, private companies would be able to invest in the development of sports infrastructure, such as stadiums, training facilities, and sports academies, with the government providing regulatory support and incentives. The aim is to reduce the financial burden on the government while allowing private investors to profit from the sports industry.
Murkomen also highlighted the importance of professionalizing sports management in Kenya. He pointed out that many sports organizations are still run in an amateurish manner, which limits their ability to attract serious investors. By professionalizing the administration of sports, clubs and federations can position themselves as viable business entities that can offer attractive returns on investment. This would involve training sports managers, adopting modern management practices, and implementing sound financial practices.
In addition to these structural reforms, Murkomen has called for a change in mindset among sports stakeholders. He believes that sports administrators, athletes, and fans need to view sports as more than just entertainment or a hobby. Instead, they should recognize the economic potential of the sector and work together to build a sustainable sports industry. This includes developing a culture of paying for sports, whether through ticket sales, subscriptions to sports channels, or purchasing merchandise.
The commercialization of sports in Kenya also presents opportunities for athletes. By turning sports into a business, athletes stand to benefit from increased sponsorship deals, higher salaries, and better training facilities. Murkomen has emphasized that athletes should be at the center of any sports commercialization strategy, as they are the ones who bring value to the industry. He envisions a future where Kenyan athletes are not only celebrated for their achievements but are also able to make a living from their talents.
Murkomen’s stance has sparked debate among various stakeholders in the sports sector, with some expressing concerns about the potential for commercialization to exclude grassroots sports or prioritize profit over the development of talent. Critics argue that if sports become too commercialized, there is a risk that only elite athletes and teams will benefit, while grassroots sports, which are often the breeding ground for future talent, may be neglected.
To address these concerns, Murkomen has assured that the government will continue to support grassroots sports development, particularly in underprivileged areas. However, he maintains that this should not come at the expense of commercializing elite sports. He believes that by striking a balance between supporting grassroots development and promoting the commercial aspects of sports, Kenya can create a robust sports ecosystem that benefits everyone.
The CS has also urged sports administrators to be more proactive in seeking sponsorship and partnerships with private companies. He noted that there are many local and international businesses that are interested in investing in sports, but they often shy away due to concerns about mismanagement or lack of accountability within sports organizations. Murkomen has challenged sports administrators to build trust with potential sponsors by demonstrating professionalism and transparency in their operations.
Furthermore, Murkomen envisions a future where Kenyan sports are not only self-sustaining but also competitive on the global stage. He believes that by monetizing sports, Kenya can attract better talent, improve training facilities, and participate in more international competitions, which will ultimately raise the profile of Kenyan sports globally. This, in turn, would increase the country’s chances of hosting major international sporting events, such as the African Cup of Nations or the World Athletics Championships, which could bring significant economic benefits to the country.
In conclusion, Kipchumba Murkomen’s vision for the sports sector in Kenya is one that prioritizes commercialization and privatization. He believes that by treating sports as a business, the country can unlock its economic potential, create jobs, and improve infrastructure. While there are challenges to this approach, particularly in terms of governance and infrastructure, Murkomen remains optimistic that with the right reforms, Kenya can build a sustainable sports industry that benefits athletes, fans, and the economy as a whole. His message to sports administrators is clear: it’s time to embrace change and treat sports not just as a passion but as a viable business opportunity.
