By Elizabeth Ochogo
The Director of Sports in the County government of Siaya Dr. Sanmac Okoth, Ph.D., has been elected as the new National Chairperson of the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) for the 2026 term.
In a hotly contested election, Dr. Okoth secured the mandate to lead Kenya’s premier youth sports body, bringing with him a wealth of experience in sports administration and a clear vision for the future of youth athletics in the country.
Speaking during his acceptance speech, Dr. Okoth expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him and called for unity among all counties. “This victory is not mine alone. It belongs to every county, every athlete, every coach, and every stakeholder who believes in the transformative power of sports,” he said.
He commended the Independent Electoral Panel and the National Executive Council for conducting a credible, democratic, and accountable process, which he noted has strengthened confidence in the institution.
Dr. Okoth outlined an ambitious agenda focused on elevating KYISA from a national competition platform into a globally recognized talent identification and development hub. His priorities include:
- Strengthening talent scouting systems across all 47 counties
- Creating clear pathways for young athletes to access professional clubs, academies, and international scholarships
- Promoting inclusivity for women, marginalized communities, and all sporting disciplines
- Building strategic partnerships with government, corporate sponsors, educational institutions, and international organizations
- Ensuring transparency, good governance, and accountability in the management of the association
- Developing sustainable post-KYISA opportunities for athletes through mentorship, education, and employment linkages
The new Chairperson emphasized that athletes remain at the center of KYISA’s mission. “To our athletes, you are the heartbeat of this organization. Every decision we make must ultimately improve your opportunities and secure your future,” Dr. Okoth affirmed.
He urged all stakeholders to rally behind the theme “One KYISA, One Vision, One Future.”