Nairobi, Wednesday 3rd March 2021.
Nairobi City County Deputy Governor and Ag. Governor Ann Kananu together with the President of National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) Paul Tergat today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Nairobi City County and the (NOCK) for the construction of OlympAfrica youth sports centre in Nairobi County at a cost of USD 350,000.
Said H.E the Deputy Governor and Ag. Governor Ann Kananu “I am pleased to be here today to witness the signing of this historic Memorandum of Understanding between Nairobi City County Government and the NOC-K. This is a historic agreement that will lead to the construction of the state of the art OlympAfrica sport centre in Nairobi. Many might not know the significance of penning this agreement today. This complex, once completed will serve Ruai, Mwiki, Mihango, Kasarani, Kamulu, Utawala, Hurlingham and even extend its services to nearby residents. These are highly populated areas with youth. This facility will not only hone their respective sporting skills, but will keep them away from idleness, crime, hard drugs and alcohol. It is my hope that one day, one of the youths from these areas will emulate our past and present Olympic heroes like; Paul Tergat, Paul Ereng, Tecla Lorupe, Robert Wangila, Prisca Jeptoo, Pamela Jelimo, Nancy Lagat, to name but a few.”
The complex comprises of 400m running track, indoor gymnasium, volleyball, basketball handball, tennis courts and swimming pool, hostels and a health center amongst other facilities.
Added Ms. Kananu, “I will give my unwavering support in my capacity in order to ensure that you receive all the necessary support from our collaborative partner; the Nairobi Metropolitan Services who will work round improving the road network leading to the facility to ensure easy access”.
The County Government is expected to provide land for the construction of sports complex while NOCK shall undertake sourcing of funds for complete construction of the complex.
Said Mr. Paul Tergat, we will move in with speed to ground break and ensure construction commences in order to give opportunity to the young generation as soon as it is completed. I thank Nairobi County Government for embracing this project and opportunity to set pace to other counties. Our reason behind having it first in Nairobi is because the city is World class and a communication and business hub of East Africa.
Mr. Tergat noted that sports has changed many lives World over. He promised to reach out to more sponsors to bring change in the sports industry in the Country.
Ruai Ward Member of County Assembly Hon.Kamangu Nyumu who was also present thanked the County Government and NOCK for putting Ruai in the map by considering it for such a project. He pledged to give all political support needed.
Present to witness the signing of the MOU were Nairobi County Executive Committee Members and Executive members of the NOCK.
H.E the Deputy Governor and Acting Governor, later donated sports kits and equipment to thirty-two (32) teams from seventeen (17) sub counties.
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