Article
Contributions of sport towards national development in Kenya
EAJPHESRM
(2003)
Abstract
After the attainment of independence from colonial rule in 1963, the priority issues on which the post-colonial Kenya Government focused its attention was eradication of poverty, improvement of healthcare facilities and expansion of education. National development plans in thefirst decade therefore addressed these three main issues. At that time, sport did not feature as a facet to development. Though people participated in sports, this was to a less extent and was generally regarded as pastime activity. In addition, sports were regarded as an activity for children in schools. In the 1960 's, some athletes who excelled in major international competitions provided the impetus for increased interest and participation in sports by Kenyans from all walks of life. Consequently, many sports federations and organization to manage and administer various sports disciplines wereformed and registered by the Government. At this moment in the history of Kenya, there has been tremendous development of sports. Its popularity has stemmed from the understanding of the Government and the people of Kenya of the role of sports as a vehicle for national development. Indeed, the contribution of sports towards social, economic, cultural and political development of Kenya has been immense. Unfortunately, there has been no documentation of the important role of sports in Kenya's development. The present paper therefore presents an overview of the status of sports in Kenya, the achievements attained and an elaboration on tangible contributions that sports has made towards the development of the nation. It is hoped that the information will provide some ideas and lessons that could benefit other countries of the world in their efforts to develop mass sport.
Keywords
- Sports,
- Kenya,
- National Development
Disciplines
Publication Date
2003
Citation Information
M. Andanje, Wycliffe W Njororai Simiyu and V. O. Onywera. "Contributions of sport towards national development in Kenya" EAJPHESRM Vol. 15 Iss. 2 (2003) p. 78 - 81 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/wycliffe-njororaisimiyu/68/