"Our dreams are on hold": Why the future of Nakuru sports is hanging in the balance

The future of sport in Nakuru is uncertain as coaches, club leaders and athletes voice concerns about the ongoing lack of sponsorship. 

From football and volleyball to boxing, stakeholders claim that the lack of financial support is stifling growth and limiting talent development, which threatens the competitiveness of these sports.

In Naivasha, Kabluce FC, a community football team, has been battling financial challenges since its inception. Founded in 2012 by John Ndung’u, the club was established with the aim of ending rivalry between Kinungi, Mwiciringiri, and Munyu secondary schools. 

“The team helped us to end the enmity between the schools and changed the community's perception,” he explains.

However, despite its positive impact, the team has never had a formal sponsor. Players often struggle to meet the costs of transport and training, forcing the team to rely on contributions from members, fans, and friends. 

Ndung’u reveals that, despite trying to approach companies and supermarkets, the only support the club has ever received was a one-time donation of uniforms. 

"Our biggest hope is for sponsors to step in so that the dreams of these young players can be realised," he says, adding that the club also mentors an under-17s team and runs a women's team, which faces similar challenges.

The challenge is not limited to football. Volleyball coach Judith Barasa laments that the lack of sponsorship has made it increasingly difficult to nurture talent from the grassroots. 

She notes that, although the region has immense potential, many young athletes are unable to participate in tournaments due to the high costs of training, travel and equipment. 

“The players are committed, but without sponsorship, their potential remains untapped, and some decide to give up the sport because they don't see their talents being rewarded,” says Barasa, pointing out that clubs are often forced to rely on unsustainable personal contributions.

Despite its rising popularity, boxing is also experiencing major setbacks. Samuel Nderitu, Chairperson of the Amateur Boxing Club, explains that financial constraints have hindered the organisation of events and denied boxers valuable exposure. 

“Our boxers train hard, but without funds to facilitate matches and provide them with the necessary equipment, their progress is hindered,” he said, emphasising that promising athletes are being denied the opportunity to compete at higher levels.

He notes that the management are approaching the private sector for partnerships to support the team, as the club's current support is not sustainable and does not benefit the boxers.

Stakeholders across these disciplines argue that sponsorship is not just about money, but also about creating opportunities. 

They emphasise that when corporate bodies, the county government and well-wishers invest in sports, they are also investing in youth empowerment and sports development in the county.

They believe that, with structured sponsorship and stronger partnerships, the county could produce champions in different disciplines and transform sport into a livelihood for many young people.