Vihiga Governor Wilber Ottichilo stated yesterday that his administration has allocated Sh86 million via the sports fund to relieve local teams of financial hardship.
The money was included in Ottichilo’s Sh5.9 billion county budget for the current financial plan.
Ottichilo (pictured) noted that many clubs experience financial difficulties, a reality that prompted his government to act by providing both material and cash assistance.
He said the funding would assist local football teams, including those in Kenya Premier League (KPL) and other teams in lowers leagues.
The sports money according to him, would be raised in future budgets to guarantee that more teams are sponsored and talents are cultivated.
Ottichilo stated that Vihiga enjoys football, athletics, and other sports and hence need more financing.
He continued to say that the county administration is dedicated to providing support for athletes by raising the calibre of athletic activities in the county.
“In recent years, the county has shown tremendous support in athletic and talent development.”
“We thought it was appropriate to invest more money in our growing talents,” he explained.
He added: “With Sh86 million annually, it will help talent development in the county that boasts of well-performing sports teams like Vihiga Queen and Bunyore Starlets in Kenya Women’s Premier League.”
The KPL teams include Vihiga Bullets for men, Vihiga Queens for women, and Bunyore Starlets for men.
Vihiga United was relegated to the National Super League.
Ottichilo further assured the Vihiga residents that his office will continue to provide the necessary assistance to all county clubs competing in the country’s premier events.
