Mombasa: The Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) has reaffirmed its commitment to sports development in the country with the official unveiling of a Sh8 million sponsorship package for Athletics Kenya. The sponsorship was unveiled on Tuesday at Kencom House in Nairobi, where KCB Foundation Director Mendi Njonjo led Bank officials in reaffirming the Institution's commitment to nurturing talent.
According to Kenya News Agency, the funds will go toward organising the National Championships, set for June 25-27 at the Ulinzi Complex, and the World Championships Trials slated for August 1-2, also in Nairobi. 'This is more than a sponsorship; it's a celebration of Kenya's proud athletic heritage and a testament to our belief in the transformative power of sport,' said Njonjo.
Of the Sh8 million sponsorship, Sh4 million will go towards the upcoming National Championships, with the remaining Sh4 million allocated to the World Athletics Championships Trials. KCB's investment, split evenly between the two upcoming events, aims to cover key logistical elements such as accommodation, training needs, and prize money.
Athletics Kenya President Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei praised the renewed partnership, describing it as a strategic alliance with the potential to reshape the nation's sporting future. 'This is a homecoming for KCB. We are back together, and this partnership will outlive us,' he said, recalling a previous collaboration between the two institutions.
Tuwei highlighted the historical significance of the coming events, noting that Athletics Kenya, now marking its 75th Anniversary, has participated in the Olympics since 1956. 'Tokyo holds a special place in our history. It was the site of our first Olympic medal in 1964,' he said.
In addition to competitive support, KCB is channelling its contribution toward long-term talent development. Last year, the Bank, through the KCB Foundation, enrolled 50 student-athletes from 12 counties into a fully funded four-year education and training programme. The initiative integrates athletics coaching with formal education, following the CBC curriculum.
'These students represent the best of the best. Our goal is not just athletic excellence, but holistic growth,' said Njonjo, adding that the programme includes assistive devices and full school kits for students with disabilities. The Foundation also plans to expand the initiative nationwide, ensuring equitable access across Kenya's 47 counties, a request echoed by Tuwei during the event. 'We want a truly national outlook, with every county represented. That's the only way to secure the future of Kenyan athletics,' Tuwei stated.
Abraham Mutai, Athletics Kenya's Marketing Chair, emphasised the need to pair sporting success with financial education. 'We are not just looking for sponsorship; we want a lasting partnership. KCB understands money and our athletes need to learn how to manage their earnings, invest wisely, and plan beyond their sporting careers,' said Mutai. He announced that this year's National Championships will feature substantial prize money for the first time, a development made possible by the KCB sponsorship.
'This will not be business as usual. We are promising transparency, accountability, and real rewards for our athletes,' he said. He further revealed plans to eliminate cash payments during international trips, replacing them with multi-currency cards to prevent inconvenience and enhance security for athletes abroad.
The unveiling ceremony also served as a platform to reflect on Kenya's rich athletic history. Tuwei took the audience through a brief history, from Kenya's Olympic debut in 1956 to the groundbreaking achievements of icons such as Eliud Kipchoge and Faith Kipyegon. He encouraged young athletes in attendance to emulate these legends while staying grounded in discipline, education, and humility.
As the national team gears up for the trials and the World Championships in Tokyo, KCB and Athletics Kenya officials vowed to deepen their collaboration. Plans include expanding scholarship programmes, introducing mentorship modules, and collaborating on national housing initiatives for retired athletes. The National Championships begin tomorrow at the Ulinzi Complex, with fans and stakeholders invited to attend and support Kenya's next generation of track stars. The World Championship Trials will follow in August, serving as the final stage of preparation before Kenya's elite athletes head to Tokyo.