Team Kenya get government blessings as they head for second edition of Africa Beach Games

Handout

GENERAL: Team Kenya get government blessings as they head for second edition of Africa Beach Games

Abigael Wafula 14:00 - 21.06.2023

Namwamba sent off the team with words of encouragement and assured them of the government's unwavering support as they embarked on their journey.

Sports CS Ababu Namwamba on Wednesday morning officially flagged off Team Kenya to the second edition of the Africa Beach Games in Hammamet, Tunisia set to run from Friday 23 to next Friday 30 June.

He sent off the team with words of encouragement and assured them of the government's unwavering support as they embarked on their journey.

During his address to the representatives of the team, the CS reiterated the government's commitment to sports and expressed his confidence in the team's performance.

"As you go forth to represent our nation, I want to assure you of the full support of the government. We have invested Ksh. 170 million in the team's preparations, ensuring you have been in camp in Malindi and Nairobi to adequately prepare. I have no doubt that you will deliver an outstanding performance," Namwamba said.

Furthermore, the Cabinet Secretary highlighted recent developments in the government's reward scheme for athletes through the Talanta Hela initiative.

He referred to the recent recognition of double world record holder Faith Kipyegon, who was rewarded by H.E President William Ruto for her remarkable achievements.

"We have revised the reward scheme, extending it not only to world records but to all athletes. Your efforts will be recognized and rewarded. So, go out there and give your best, knowing that the entire nation and the government stand behind you," he said.

The first Deputy President, Shadrack Maluki, and Executive member Paul Otula also extended their well-wishes to the athletes, expressing gratitude to the government

"We sincerely thank the Cabinet Secretary for his kind words and unwavering support to Team Kenya. We have full confidence that the team will make the entire nation proud," Maluki said.

The Kenyan athletes have been diligently preparing for the games, with basketball training taking place at Umoja Courts in Nairobi and wrestling training held at Strathmore University.

Brian Ziruel, the captain of the 3X3 U23 Basketball men's team, expressed his gratitude for the support received.

He said: "Representing your country internationally is a dream come true for every basketball player. The presence of the Cabinet Secretary at this early stage to bid us farewell and flag us off is a tremendous motivation for the team."

Meanwhile, Team Kenya will be represented by 74 talented athletes across seven sports disciplines. These include 3x3 basketball for men and women in the U23 category, Beach Marathon (10km) with both male and female participants, Beach Handball for both male and female teams who have already arrived in Tunisia.

There will also be Beach Tennis featuring doubles matches for men, women, and mixed teams, beach wrestling, beach soccer for men and women playing in the 5-aside format, ocean water kayaking, and ocean water sprint rowing.