National Assembly Speaker, Moses Wetangula, on Thursday, donated Sh2 million to Nzoia Sugar Football Club, a significant gesture aimed at helping the club overcome logistical challenges as it strives to navigate the National Super League (NSL) season. The donation is expected to ease the financial strain on the club, providing crucial support as they aim to secure promotion to the Kenya Premier League (KPL).
In his address during the donation ceremony, Wetangula emphasized the importance of sports in the development of youth and the nation. He highlighted how sports play a crucial role in fostering both physical well-being and talent development, stating that “Sporting is critical both for keeping our health in check as well as nurturing talent.” The donation of Sh2 million is specifically intended to address some of the club’s ongoing logistical hurdles, ensuring that the team remains competitive as it progresses through the season.
The Speaker, who is a passionate supporter of Nzoia Sugar FC, further expressed his commitment to the club’s long-term success. Wetangula acknowledged the efforts of the club’s Chairman, Evans Kadenge, the son of football legend Joe Kadenge, for his leadership in the club. He encouraged Kadenge to maintain the team’s momentum by focusing on rigorous training and skill specialization, key aspects that could enhance the club’s performance.
“I have this morning donated Sh2 million to the management of Nzoia Sugar FC to help address some of the logistical challenges the National Super League side is facing and ensure it successfully navigates the remainder of the season,” Wetangula said during the ceremony. He reassured Kadenge of his unwavering support in ensuring that the club achieves its goal of earning a spot in the Kenya Premier League, Kenya’s top-tier football competition.
In his response, Evans Kadenge expressed profound gratitude for Wetangula’s generous donation, acknowledging that the financial aid would significantly contribute to solving the club’s challenges. “Speaker, we appreciate your consistent support to this end. We assure you that we shall keep the fire on for the progress and prosperity of the Club,” Kadenge affirmed.
The donation was also praised by local leaders, including Kanduyi Member of Parliament, John Makali, who commended Kadenge for his vision in guiding Nzoia Sugar FC. Makali emphasized the importance of identifying and nurturing local talent, particularly during the school holidays when young people have more time to pursue sports. He noted that many local youths possess hidden talent, and football clubs like Nzoia Sugar could play a crucial role in discovering and developing these skills.
Bungoma Senator, Wakoli Wafula, also weighed in on the significance of Wetangula’s gesture, urging the youth to consider sports as a viable career option. He explained that sports offer not only health benefits but also an opportunity to build a livelihood. His comments highlighted the growing recognition of sports as a key sector for both personal and national economic growth.
“Sport can be a source of livelihood,” Senator Wafula said, underscoring the importance of integrating sports into the broader conversation about youth empowerment and economic development.
The event was a notable occasion for Nzoia Sugar FC, a club founded in 1982 and based in Bungoma County. Over the years, the club has established itself as a key player in Kenya’s football landscape, though it has faced its share of financial and logistical hurdles. With Wetangula’s donation, there is renewed hope that the club will overcome its challenges and achieve its goal of promotion to the Kenya Premier League.
As Nzoia Sugar FC continues its journey in the National Super League, Wetangula’s donation serves as a powerful reminder of the role that community leaders and politicians can play in supporting local sports initiatives. It also signals a growing recognition of sports as an avenue for both youth empowerment and national development. The donation reflects Wetangula’s commitment to nurturing local football talent and promoting sports as a critical sector for Kenya’s future.
