Uhuru receives 2022 FIFA World Cup Trophy, says it’s an inspiration to Kenya’s football fraternity

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Thursday received the 2022 FIFA World Cup trophy at State House, Nairobi, saying its presence is an inspiration to the country’s football fraternity.

The President said the unveiling of the FIFA World Cup trophy in the country was also a great motivation to the youth to achieve greater football success.

This is the fourth time Kenya is hosting the coveted trophy, with earlier stops having been in 2010, 2013 and 2018.

“The FIFA World Cup remains the greatest sporting extravaganza in the world. From big cities to sleepy villages, the tournament is followed in every nation by enthusiastic fans from all segments of society.

“It is, therefore, a moment of great privilege and profound honour for Kenya as we officially receive the FIFA World Cup Trophy on behalf of our nation,” President Kenyatta said before the 18-carat gold trophy was unveiled. 

Even though Kenya’s fortunes in football have not been bountiful, President Kenyatta said football is nonetheless a strong part of the country’s national fabric and it remains the most popular sport.

The Head of State affirmed the government’s commitment to continue making the requisite public investments as part of the efforts to boost the country’s chances of qualifying and thereafter winning the World Cup.

“On behalf of the government and the people of Kenya, it is an honour to be part of the 51 countries and territories that are part of the global tour of the sport’s most acclaimed trophy. I thank FIFA and all its partners, including Coca-Cola, for making this global tour a possibility and the stop in Kenya a reality,” President Kenyatta said.

Coca Cola East and Central Africa Franchise Vice President Debra Mallowah said Kenya is one of the nine countries selected to be part of this season’s FIFA World Cup trophy tour.

“Your Excellency, we are honoured to partner with FIFA to deliver this iconic trophy to Kenya. It gives us the unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on this beautiful country and the fans who love this beautiful game.

“The FIFA World Cup trophy tour is an extra ordinary opportunity to bring Kenyans together, taking a piece of football history and share a passion for the sport with each other. Indeed, football has the power to unite us all,” Ms. Mallowah said.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed also spoke at the event attended by Head of Public Service Dr. Joseph Kinyua and Cabinet Secretaries Betty Maina and Najib Balala among other senior government officials.

Before unveiling the World Cup trophy, President was treated to two captivating display football matches.

In the first match, Harambee Stars former legends led by captain Musa Otieno beat Coca-Cola FC 1-0 while in the second, Wasafi FC drew with State House Soccer Academy 1-1.