Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea has backed sports as a hinge for promoting social cohesion, unity and integration, saying sporting activities can bring together people from diverse communities around a shared passion.

Kapkea spoke in Eldoret during the flag-off of a trans-country cycling team undertaking a 55-day expedition across Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania under the theme of promoting integration and cohesion through sports.

He said cycling, like other sporting disciplines, provides an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to interact, build friendships and break down social barriers, thereby fostering peaceful coexistence.

“Sports bring people together regardless of their backgrounds. Through such activities, we can strengthen friendships, promote understanding and build a more united society,” Kapkea said.

The Deputy Governor reaffirmed the County Government of Uasin Gishu’s commitment to supporting sports as part of its broader youth empowerment and talent development agenda.

He said the county would continue creating an enabling environment for athletes and sports enthusiasts to nurture their talents while leveraging sporting events to promote positive social values.

Kapkea noted that sports should not only be viewed as a source of talent and economic opportunity but also as an important platform for strengthening community bonds and promoting national integration.

The county has increasingly linked sports development with broader priorities, including youth empowerment, talent monetisation and environmental conservation.

The cycling expedition is expected to highlight the power of sport to connect communities across geographical and cultural boundaries while reinforcing the role of sporting activities in building a more cohesive and integrated society.

County Executive Committee Member for Sports Robert Kemei, Chief Officer CPA Victorine Kapkiai and Deputy Director Pius Mosbei were among senior county officials who attended the flag-off.

Meanwhile, a representative from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is in Eldoret City to check on the stadia and fields, hospitality and health capacity ahead of the 2027 Afcon Tournament that will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. The representative visited Kipchoge Stadium with the Deputy Governor and Sports Officials.