Laikipia Gains Economically As KYISA Games Kick Off In Nyahururu

By Fatuma Rashid Arfun

Laikipia County is already recording significant economic benefits from the ongoing 11th Edition of the Kenya Youth Inter-County Sports Association (KYISA) games in Nyahururu, as increased visitor activity drives business growth.

The tournament has drawn teams from 20 counties, alongside officials, supporters, and service providers, creating a surge in demand for accommodation, food services, and transport within Nyahururu and surrounding areas.

Local businesses report heightened activity, with hotels and eateries experiencing higher occupancy and customer volumes. Transport operators and small traders are also benefiting from the influx, reflecting a broad-based boost to the local economy.

“This event is already translating into real economic value for our people, with businesses across Nyahururu and neighboring towns recording increased activity and income,” said Laikipia County Secretary Koinange Wahome.

Beyond commerce, Koinange said, the games are enhancing Laikipia County’s visibility as a tourism destination, with visitors exploring attractions such as Thompson Falls and engaging with the region’s cultural heritage during their stay.

County officials note that this exposure is expected to have a lasting effect, positioning Laikipia competitively within Kenya’s domestic tourism and events landscape while supporting jobs tied to the sector.

At the same time, Koinange said the tournament continues to serve its core objective of youth development, offering young athletes a platform to showcase talent, build discipline, and gain valuable competitive experience.

Participants from across the country are also engaging in cultural exchange, fostering national cohesion and strengthening shared identity through sport, a key pillar of the KYISA initiative.

“We will continue to position Laikipia as a premier destination for sports, conferences, and tourism to unlock sustained economic opportunities for our communities,” Koinange added.

The KYISA games, now in their 11th edition, remain a significant fixture in Kenya’s youth sports calendar, combining competition with broader socio-economic and developmental impact for host counties.