- Former Sports CS Ababu Namwamba hosted Nastic Sports Academy officials at his Karen residence.
- Nastic’s Head of School Javier Ornia and Sporting Director Jose Manuel Diaz attended the visit, reflecting the academy’s ties with Kenyan football talent.
- Namwamba highlighted Nastic’s role in nurturing Kenyan youth players, several of whom now play in Spain.
Nastic Sports Academy, a leading Spanish sports institution, recently paid a courtesy visit to Kenya’s former Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba at his Karen home. Namwamba, who served as Sports CS until July 2024, was instrumental in introducing the academy to Kenya. Under his tenure, Nastic scouted and signed several young Kenyan players who now train and play in Spain.
During the visit, Namwamba welcomed Head of School Javier Ornia and Sporting Director Jose Manuel Diaz, whom he considers close friends. Nastic has had a profound impact on Kenyan football, notably signing young talents like Aldrine Kibet, Allan Kasavuli, Ismael Odhiambo, Ezekiel Nguwa, and Rising Stars captain Amos Wanjala. These players represent the academy’s commitment to fostering international opportunities for Kenya’s budding football stars.
Namwamba expressed pride in the academy’s influence, referencing their April training camp for both boys and girls. The camp set the stage for the U17 Rising Starlets, who became the first Kenyan girls’ team to compete at a FIFA World Cup, and the U20 Rising Stars, who recently qualified for the 2025 Junior Africa Cup of Nations.
Reflecting on his achievements in sports development, Namwamba affirmed his continued support for Kenyan youth in football, with Nastic’s work a testament to the value of investing in grassroots talent. The former CS’s dedication leaves a lasting legacy, opening new pathways for Kenyan players to showcase their skills on a global stage.
