By WAKHUNGU ANDANJE
JULY 9, 2026| Kakamega County is intensifying efforts to develop sports infrastructure and nurture talent as it prepares to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) games.
The Department of Youth, Sports, and Library Services, through Chief Officer Lawrence Mukoyani and County Executive Committee Member (CECM) Jackline Masicha, has reported significant progress in the sports sector over the past year.
During an inspection of the ongoing renovation of Bukhungu Stadium, Mukoyani expressed confidence that the upgrade to international standards would be completed by December 2026, in time for the continental tournament.
The chief officer confirmed that construction is progressing around the clock. Once completed, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) will conduct a thorough inspection to certify the facility meets required standards for hosting AFCON-related activities.
Bukhungu Stadium has been identified as a potential training ground for teams participating in the 2027 AFCON. If ratified as suitable, local residents will have the opportunity to host and watch international teams conduct their training sessions.
Mukoyani lauded the department’s efforts in identifying and developing sporting talent across the county, particularly in football and other disciplines.
He highlighted the close working relationship with CECM Jackline Masicha, noting their successful introduction of an interdepartmental sports competition, which served as a build-up to the KICOSCA games held in Siaya, where the county participated fully.
According to Mukoyani, youth and sports programmes have provided platforms for young people to unite, build professional networks, and advance their sporting careers.
The county has conducted sporting initiatives across various wards to tap into and nurture local talent.
Recent achievements include the successful organization of the Governor’s Cup, alongside events such as Granny’s Soccer, Women’s Football, and the county’s first drifting motorsport event, aimed at engaging youth and recognizing their contributions to sports.
The department has strengthened partnerships with various organizations, including a collaboration with Christ Is The Answer Ministries (CITAM) Church for the Gospel Soccer Mega Tournament.
Other notable partnerships include hosting the Super 8 tournament with former Kakamega School alumni and the Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSSA) games, which the county cited as one of its major sporting accomplishments.
On talent development, Mukoyani noted that the Governor’s Cup and other competitions have provided platforms for local athletes to secure opportunities locally and internationally.
Four footballers have received scholarships to football academies in the United States through a programme supported by former footballer Bob Yugi.
Additionally, the National Super League and Division Two leagues have scouted several young talents from the county into their teams.
Mukoyani encouraged young talents pursuing sports careers to maintain focus, adopt healthy lifestyles, train consistently, and avoid substance abuse, emphasizing that discipline and commitment are essential for success.