By KPC Sports Reporter
Leadership at the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund (SASDF) has officially transitioned following a formal handover ceremony held at Talanta Plaza in Nairobi.
The move ushers in a new chapter for one of Kenya’s most critical funding instruments for sports and creative talent development.
Retired Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei formally handed over the chairmanship of the SASDF Board to George Kithi, who will serve a three-year term following his appointment on February 6, 2026.
The ceremony was witnessed by Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, alongside government officials, board members, and stakeholders from the sports and creative sectors.
Speaking during the event, Mvurya commended Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Tuwei for his exemplary leadership and dedication, noting that his stewardship helped transform the Fund into a stronger and more responsive institution in support of Kenyan talent.
“I want to thank you for your service to the country. Under your tenure, our sportsmen and women were accorded dignity as the Government undertook the decisive step of securitizing the Fund,” said Mvurya.
“This reform has ensured that federations receive better and timely disbursements, enabling athletes to prepare adequately and represent the nation with pride.”
In his remarks, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Tuwei expressed gratitude to the Government for the support extended during his tenure and reflected on key milestones achieved under the Board’s leadership.
“I am glad that together we managed to undertake meaningful and impactful work over the years. Talent has been nurtured, federations strengthened, and I am confident that the securitization foundation we established will give talented Kenyans an even better opportunity to thrive and compete globally,” he said.
Welcoming the incoming chair, Mvurya expressed confidence in Kithi’s leadership and assured him of the Ministry’s full support in executing the Board’s mandate.
“Continue with the good work done by your predecessor. My office will accord you the necessary support even as you address the priorities within the Fund,” he stated.
“Be steadfast and diligent in your leadership, and I am confident that under your stewardship the SASDF will continue to grow and deliver even greater impact for Kenyan sports and the creative sector.”
SASDF has been instrumental in financing Kenya’s participation in major international sporting events, facilitating athlete preparations, and supporting sports infrastructure programs.
It has also helped in undertaking a comprehensive review of the cash awards framework to ensure fairness, sustainability, and proper recognition of athletes who have represented the country on the global stage.
Kithi assumes leadership at a pivotal moment when the Government has undertaken major reforms within the Fund, including its securitization.
The move is designed to strengthen transparency, improve financial sustainability, and ensure timely and efficient allocation of resources to sports federations, athletes, and cultural initiatives across the country.
The Fund remains a cornerstone of the Government’s strategy to nurture talent, strengthen federations, promote cultural expression, and enhance Kenya’s global presence through sports and the creative economy by empowering athletes, artists, and cultural practitioners and contributing to the growth of the country’s sports and creative industries.
The statement was issued by Head of Public Communication Juney Karisa on Wednesday.