Leadership at the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund (SASDF) has changed hands through an official ceremony at Talanta Plaza in Nairobi.
This transition marks a new era for one of Kenya’s principal funding mechanisms supporting sports and creative talent development.
Retired Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Jackson Tuwei officially transferred the SASDF Board chairmanship to George Kithi, who begins a three-year appointment starting February 6, 2026.
The event was attended by Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, along with government officials, board members, and representatives from sports and creative industries.
During the occasion, Mvurya praised Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Tuwei for his outstanding leadership and commitment, highlighting how his guidance transformed the Fund into a more robust and responsive organization for nurturing Kenyan talent.
“I appreciate your contribution to the nation. During your leadership, our athletes received proper recognition as the Government implemented the significant measure of securing the Fund,” stated Mvurya.
“This reform has guaranteed that federations get improved and prompt funding, allowing sportspeople to prepare effectively and represent the country with honor.”
In his address, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Tuwei thanked the Government for the assistance provided during his leadership and reviewed significant accomplishments achieved under the Board’s direction.
“I am pleased that we accomplished substantial and valuable work together over the years. Talent has been developed, organizations strengthened, and I believe the security framework we established will provide skilled Kenyans with enhanced opportunities to flourish and compete internationally,” he noted.
Receiving the new chair, Mvurya expressed faith in Kithi’s abilities and promised the Ministry’s complete backing in fulfilling the Board’s responsibilities.
“Maintain the excellent work of your predecessor. My department will provide you with required support as you handle the Fund’s key objectives,” he emphasized.
“Be resolute and diligent in your role, and I am sure that under your guidance the SASDF will keep advancing and achieving superior results for Kenyan sports and the creative field.”
SASDF has played a vital role in funding Kenya’s involvement in prominent international sports competitions, enabling athlete preparations, and advancing sports infrastructure projects.
It has also contributed to conducting a thorough examination of the monetary awards system to ensure equity, long-term viability, and appropriate acknowledgment of athletes who have represented the nation globally.
Kithi takes charge at a crucial time when the Government has implemented significant changes within the Fund, including its financial security.
These reforms aim to enhance transparency, boost fiscal stability, and facilitate prompt and effective distribution of resources to sports organizations, athletes, and cultural programs nationwide.
The Fund continues to be a fundamental element of the Government’s approach to developing talent, reinforcing organizations, encouraging cultural activities, and elevating Kenya’s international standing through sports and the creative economy by empowering sportspeople, creators, and cultural figures and supporting the advancement of the nation’s sports and cultural sectors.
The announcement was released by Head of Public Communication Juney Karisa on Wednesday.