NAIROBI, Kenya, May 14 – Sports is a powerful lever for economic and social development, social cohesion and youth integration.Through its support for innovative projects in the field of sport, France – notably via the group Agence Française de Développement (AFD) – promotes initiatives combining sports excellence, social inclusion, local capacity building, and economic opportunities.
As part of the business forum of the Africa Forward (SAF) Summit, AFD organized a high-level segment dedicated to sport. This sequence aimed to highlight the strategic role of sport as a lever for sustainable development, social cohesion and international cooperation but also for economic growth.
Speaking during the sports showcase; Kenyan Track Legend and former NOCK President, Paul Tergat, emphasized the need for sports infrastructure development in the county, saying it will boost the massive talent Kenya has when it comes to sports.
Tegla Lorupe of the Tegla Lorupe Peace foundation expressed gratitude for collaborations between the government, development partners and the private sector for its role in developing talent in sport citing World Record Holder, Sebastian Sawe, as the perfect example.
The sports showcase featured a three-point shooting contest with young people, some of whom are disabled with the participation of Ahmed Taofik, former basketball player, founder of the association Enfants du Bénin Debout, football and athletics.
Football activities included a six-team youth tournament and penalty shootout sessions facilitated by community sports organizations including Alive and Kicking, Futbol Mas and Angaza Sport and Development Centre, with support from the Kenyan Football Federation and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The event, organized by Agence Française de Développement (AFD) in collaboration with the French Embassy in Kenya and Kenyan partners, brought together senior political leaders, international athletes, youth groups, sports organizations and development partners for a day-long showcase highlighting sport as a driver of social inclusion and sustainable development.
The athletics demonstration featured training sessions and coaching methodologies led by Decathlon and Kiprun, Iten House of Coaches and the Tegla Loroupe Peace Foundation. Organizers have also planned a multi-kilometer race within the university grounds.
The event culminated in a closing ceremony attended by Presidents Emmanuel Macron, William Ruto, Diomaye Faye of Senegal who interacted with young athletes, coaches and sports development organizations.
