The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports has urged sports journalists to play a more central role in driving the development of Kenyan sport, as the Sports Journalists’ Association of Kenya (SJAK) marked World Sports Day through its second Indoor Sports Day in Nairobi on Friday.
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi said the media was a critical partner in the Government’s efforts to reposition sport from mere recreation and entertainment into a strategic sector for talent development, employment, national pride, social development and economic growth.
Sports Director Douglas Ratemo delivered Mwangi’s keynote speech during SJAK’s Annual General Meeting on Friday in Nairobi, where he challenged journalists to use their platforms to interrogate issues affecting the country’s sporting ecosystem.
“This AGM comes at an important time when the Government is seeking to reposition sport not merely as recreation and entertainment, but as a strategic sector for talent development, employment, national pride, social development and economic growth,” said the PS.
He described the media as an integral part of the sports ecosystem, noting that while athletes create memorable moments, journalists give those achievements a voice and lasting impact.
The Ministry urged journalists to go beyond reporting results and ask difficult questions about governance, talent development, facilities, coaching and the transition of young athletes to elite sport.
Mwangi also challenged the media to highlight the human stories behind sporting success, saying powerful journalism can influence policy, investment and decision-making.
“Behind every medal is a story of sacrifice. Behind every record is years of training,” he said.
SJAK President James Waindi noted that the association would continue working with Government to enhance professionalism, training and welfare among sports journalists.
The AGM received reports on membership, finances and welfare and ratified a new constitution.
The meeting also coincided with SJAK’s belated celebration of World Sports Day, observed globally on July 2, through the second edition of its Indoor Sports Day at Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel.
Sponsored by KCB Bank Kenya, the event featured darts, chess and other indoor disciplines, giving journalists an opportunity to experience sports beyond football and athletics.
Waindi explained that the initiative was designed to promote all-round journalism and encourage members to understand disciplines that receive less media attention.
“World Sports Day is about participation and inclusion. This indoor day is our way of living that spirit, even if belatedly. Sport is for everyone, and journalism should reflect that,” he said.
SJAK Treasurer Mukami Wambora won the women’s darts title, while Martin Cheruiyot of KASS FM took the men’s crown. In chess, Waindi emerged overall winner, with Anita Omwenga of MyGov winning the women’s title.
SJAK plans to hold an outdoor sports day later this year featuring football and fun activities, including egg and sack races.
