Kakuma, February 8, 2026 (Public Communication and Media Relations)
Deputy Governor Dr. John Erus on Saturday presided over the launch of “Regenerate Kakuma,” a refugee-led sports complex initiative aimed at serving both host and refugee communities while supporting the implementation of the Shirika Plan.
Speaking during the launch at the proposed project site where he also planted a commemorative tree, Dr. Erus described the initiative as a bold and timely intervention that strengthens youth talent development, promotes physical and mental wellness, and deepens host–refugee integration.
“This initiative elevates talent nurturing and the
promotion of physical and mental wellness to another level. The County Government commits to support the process through the relevant departments handling urban planning, youth development, sports, host–refugee integration and partnership mobilization,” said Dr. Erus.
He further urged the organizers to ensure full compliance with county and national regulatory requirements as the project advances.
The youth-driven initiative is spearheaded by members of the Easy Fit Gang fitness club and is designed to ease pressure on overstretched recreational facilities in the rapidly growing Kakuma Municipality.
Once completed, the modern sports and wellness complex will offer integrated services including talent development, dance, yoga, media training, and physical fitness programs.
Organizers revealed that the facility is expected to be completed within four years and has been deliberately located outside the refugee camp to guarantee access for the wider public, including residents from Lodwar, Lokichoggio, and neighboring towns.
County Director for Sports James Nateleng encouraged the youth to work closely with Sports Kenya and the County Government throughout implementation, noting that Turkana stands to benefit significantly as existing sports and recreational facilities face increasing strain from population growth.
Director of Partnerships Mike Aupe commended the refugee-led group for attracting new partners at a time when donor funding has declined, saying the project demonstrates local innovation and resilience while opening new collaboration opportunities for the county.
One of the founders, Abubakar Rugamba, said the group was formed in 2020 to address immediate physical fitness needs before evolving the idea into a major recreational facility serving both refugee and host communities.
He added that the initiative has already received support from the TO.Org Foundation and internationally recognized architects who developed the structural designs unveiled during the launch.
“We have secured land for the complex and intentionally chose a location outside the camp so the facility can serve the entire public. We call upon well-wishers and partners to support us in realizing a fully fledged sports complex that will contribute to the growth and urbanization of Kakuma and Kalobeyei,” Rugamba said.
The launch was also attended by renowned youth empowerment advocate Brizan Were and Jerry Ekimwormwor, Principal Administrator in the Office of the Deputy Governor.
