The Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund (SASDF) is set to fuel a new era of sports development in Kenya from grassroots to elite level as it hits Ksh48.2 billion in betting revenue, shattering previous records.
The SASDF is a government-backed initiative to strengthen the country’s sports, arts, and social development sectors. A few days ago, the body revealed that Ksh48.2 billion was revenue from betting activities in the past five years.
Ababu Namwamba, Sports Cabinet Secretary, stated that this massive funding will significantly boost the sector. He further stated that the SADF’s disbursements over the past five years had totaled Ksh41.7 billion, with the money invested in various sports, arts, and social development initiatives.
Also, according to him, the sports sector has been the biggest beneficiary of the total disbursements, accounting for approximately 65% of the Fund’s overall spending. Investment has been made in elite Kenyan athletes and upgraded sports facilities nationwide.
Meanwhile, 30% of the disbursements have gone to social development initiatives, and 5% has been invested in Kenya’s vibrant arts and culture scene.
In addition, the government is also demonstrating its support for Kenyan athletes by introducing a new cash prize of Ksh5 million for those who break world records. This prestigious award has already been presented to notable athletes. They are Faith Kipyegon, who set a new world record in the 1500m race, and Kelvin Kiptum, who broke the half marathon world record. These awards celebrate the athletes’ incredible achievements and inspire others to follow suit.
“The Government has significantly raised rewards for medal winners to Ksh3m, 2m and 1m for gold, silver and bronze, respectively” – Ababu Namwamba, Sports Cabinet Secretary.