George Kithi has officially assumed office as Chairperson of the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund (SASDF) following a formal handover ceremony held at Talanta Plaza in Nairobi.
The transition marks the end of the tenure of retired Lt. Gen. Jackson Tuwei, who handed over leadership of the Board after steering the Fund through a period of reforms aimed at strengthening governance and financial sustainability.
The ceremony was witnessed by Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, alongside government officials, board members and stakeholders from the sports and creative sectors.
Kithi will serve a three-year term following his appointment on February 6, 2026.
Speaking during the event, Cabinet Secretary Mvurya commended Tuwei for what he described as exemplary leadership and dedication during his tenure, noting that his stewardship had helped transform the Fund into a stronger and more responsive institution.
“I want to thank you for your service to the country. Under your tenure, our sportsmen and women were accorded dignity as the Government undertook the decisive step of securitizing the Fund. This reform has ensured that federations receive better and timely disbursements, enabling athletes to prepare adequately and represent the nation with pride,” Mvurya said.
In his remarks, Tuwei expressed gratitude to the government for the support extended to him during his time at the helm of the Board and reflected on milestones achieved under his leadership.
“I am glad that together we managed to undertake meaningful and impactful work over the years. Talent has been nurtured, federations strengthened, and I am confident that the securitization foundation we established will give talented Kenyans an even better opportunity to thrive and compete globally,” he said.
Welcoming the incoming chairperson, Mvurya expressed confidence in Kithi’s leadership and assured him of the Ministry’s full backing in executing the Board’s mandate.
“Continue with the good work done by your predecessor. My office will accord you the necessary support even as you address the priorities within the Fund. Be steadfast and diligent in your leadership, and I am confident that under your stewardship the SASDF will continue to grow and deliver even greater impact for Kenyan sports and the creative sector,” the Cabinet Secretary stated.
The Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund has been instrumental in financing Kenya’s participation in major international sporting events, facilitating athlete preparations, and supporting sports infrastructure programmes across the country.
The Fund has also undertaken a comprehensive review of the cash awards framework to ensure fairness, sustainability and recognition for Kenyan athletes who excel on the global stage.
Kithi assumes leadership at a time when the Government has implemented significant reforms within the Fund, including the securitization of SASDF.
The move is designed to enhance transparency, improve financial sustainability and ensure timely and efficient allocation of resources to sports federations, athletes and cultural initiatives nationwide.
The Fund remains central to the Government’s strategy to nurture talent, strengthen federations, promote cultural expression and enhance Kenya’s global presence through sports and the creative economy.
