By Our Correspondent
Laikipia County is positioning itself to host future intercounty games and other national forums in the near future, citing its readiness and capacity to stage major events.
County Secretary Koinange Wahome announced that such a move is part of a broader plan to raise the region’s profile, stimulate the local economy and showcasing the region’s potential in investment.
“Such events draw thousands of participants and spectators, boosting local businesses including hotels, restaurants, and transport services, while highlighting the host county as a strong tourist destination,” Koinange said.
He spoke at the Nyahururu Town Hall while flagging off a county team travelling to Siaya for the week-long Kenya Inter-Counties Sports and Cultural Association games, which start Monday and will be held in Siaya, Ugunja and Bondo townships.
The annual national event brings together employees from all 47 county governments to compete in various sports and cultural activities, fostering cohesion and networking. At least 40 counties having confirmed participation.
This year’s edition carries the theme Building Synergies on Climate Change through Sports and Cultural Activities, aimed at helping county staff and the public understand climate change, its impacts, and the practical steps communities can take to reduce those effects.
Recent hosts of the KICOSCA games include Kakamega County in 2024, Meru County in 2023, and Kisumu County in 2022. Before these, the games were hosted in Embu in 2021 and Kericho in 2019.
Koinange further emphasized that the administration is committed to supporting the mental and physical wellness of its staff through such activities, which in turn improves morale and productivity.
“These forums are also crucial for identifying, nurturing, and showcasing talent among public servants and young people across the sub-counties,” he stated while expressing confidence that the team would bring awards in the various disciplines.