Swim Safe Kenya boss Okatso upbeat of Kenya's swimming prospects

 Swim Safe Kenya director who also doubles up as Kiambu Aquatics Secretary Dr. Douglas Okatso, is upbeat of the sport’s trajectory in the country, calling for stakeholders to join forces to take Kenya to the elite level.

Speaking at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) before jetting out for a swimming development tour in Dubai on Monday, the seasoned administrator termed the excursion as an opportunity to discover new frontiers for the game’s growth and development.  

“I am grateful for the support we continue to receive from our partners. Part of this trip involves striking agreements with partners in Dubai and Abu Dhabi that will help us develop the game in Kenya

“These agreements will allow us to recommend our graduates directly to workplaces abroad,” he explained.

Swim Safe Kenya trains lifeguards and water safety professionals and their curriculum includes lifesaving, coaching, first aid, and other skills needed in the water-based job market.

The organization has also partnered with local schools, hotels, and federations.

“For example, we have MOUs with Kenyatta University and JKUAT, where we train students on lifesaving.

He described this year’s Kiambu Aquatics Minnows Swimming Championship that will be staged at Potterhouse School, Runda as a show of the sustained efforts to grow the game.  

His itinerary includes a visit to Abu Dhabi’s largest water park, a desert safari, and the world-famous Burj Khalifa.