Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja met with the newly crowned national boys’ football champions, the Highway Secondary School team, as they prepared for an 11-day tour in Romania.
The meeting took place at City Hall, where the Governor extended his heartfelt congratulations to the team for their outstanding performance and assured them of his government’s unwavering support.
Highway Secondary School recently clinched the national title in a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout victory against Musingu at Gusii Stadium, earning them the prestigious honor and the opportunity to represent Kenya in Romania.
During the meeting, Governor Sakaja emphasized the importance of education alongside sports, urging the team to strive for excellence both on and off the pitch. He shared his personal experiences as a student at Lenana School, where he overcame challenges to excel academically, encouraging the players to make the most of their opportunities.
“As a form one student at Lenana School, I performed poorly because of being bullied, but I made a decision in form two to better my best, and from that day, I was a top student,” Sakaja recounted. “This is your opportunity to better your best.”
The Governor also addressed concerns about the safety of the school’s football pitch, which has been under threat from land grabbers. He reassured the team and the school community that his government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, would ensure the land remains protected.
“I will be engaging the Ministry of Education to guarantee that the land where the school’s football pitch is located is safe. Don’t worry, it will not be grabbed,” Sakaja affirmed.
In attendance was the European Union Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geiger, who congratulated the team on their success and encouraged them to enjoy their trip to Romania.
“We are proud of you. This is a maiden trip for you to Romania. Enjoy it, and as you do so, understand that we are happy with your performance as national football champions,” Geiger said.
Youths and Talent CEC Brian Mulama also expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishments and pledged the county’s continued support.
“Be assured that we have you in our hearts. We are proud of you and your performance, and that is why today we have this meeting with the Governor,” Mulama stated.
Youths and Talent Chief Officer, Oscar Igaida, urged the players to be exemplary ambassadors for Kenya as they prepare to represent the country in Mbale, Uganda, after their Romanian tour.
The meeting was a moment of celebration and inspiration for the Highway Secondary School football team, as they embark on an international journey that promises to be a significant chapter in their young lives.
