NBA pledges to develop basketball infrastructure in Kenya
By Joel Masibo, September 24, 2025The National Basketball Association (NBA), a premier professional basketball league in North America, has pledged to improve Kenya’s sport’s infrastructure in the coming days.
Confirming the commitment to improving the state of basketball in Kenya, President William Ruto said the NBA will put up modern basketball facilities in Nairobi, Kisumu and Mombasa.
Ruto confirmed the development after meeting NBA Deputy Commissioner and COO Mark Tatum on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
”Our discussions focused on deepening collaboration in sports and infrastructure development, including plans for a world-class multi-purpose arena in Railway City, Nairobi,” Ruto shared via X.
”The NBA also proposed the development of four Presidential Courts to anchor grassroots basketball, with Kisumu and Tononoka in Mombasa identified as priority venues,” Ruto added.
”This initiative is designed to inspire young talent, expand access to sports facilities, and strengthen Kenya’s place in Africa’s sporting landscape. NBA Africa Chief Executive Officer Clare Akamanzi, Zaria Group Co-Founder Masai Ujiri and Zaria Group Co-Founder Andrew Feinstein were present.” President William Ruto said.
The Wednesday meeting comes after the government and the National Basketball Association (NBA) earlier in the month agreed to fast-track plans for the development of a world-class multi-purpose basketball arena in the country, capable of hosting major international competitions, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL).
NBA holds discussion with Kenyan government
In a discussion held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, between Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, and NBA officials led by NBA Africa CEO, Clare Akamanzi, the parties involved committed to working together in achieving the mission.
CS Mvurya confirmed that Kenya will expedite the identification of a prime venue for the arena as part of its broader sports development agenda to modernise infrastructure, expand youth opportunities, and prepare Kenya for hosting continental and global competitions.
“This arena will not only be a landmark for Kenya but also a beacon of opportunity for our athletes. It aligns squarely with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, where sports is a key pillar for youth empowerment, economic growth, and social cohesion. By partnering with the NBA, we are investing in talent, jobs, and Kenya’s future as a continental sporting hub,” said CS Mvurya.