The Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) baseball grounds, the first of its kind in Nairobi, was a hub of excitement this past weekend when it played host to hundreds of fans drawn from across the country and beyond who thronged the University, Sunday, September15, 2024 for a baseball tournament extravaganza.
The event was headlined by a host of dignitaries, led by JKUAT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, the Deputy Ambassador of the U.S. Embassy to Kenya, Carla Benini among country-wide celebrities, led by renowned radio personality Carol Radul, made prominent appearances including Mr. Dennis Munuve, a representative from the Ministry of Sports.
The Sunday event, served up an electrifying encounter, with the crack of bats and the cheers of enthusiastic spectators filling the air. The atmosphere was ignited by a lively commentary and slapping music.
Teams from various regions competed fiercely. The fixtures comprised Nairobi Buffaloes vs JKUAT Generals, Wreckers vs Samurai, Celebrity and Shujaa Softball game. The tournament served not just as a competition, but as a celebration of the growth of baseball in Kenya—a sport that has been steadily gaining popularity over the years.
Apart from the on-field action, the event featured a variety of activities for fans and families. Food stalls, merchandise booths and interactive games added to the festive mood, ensuring there was something for everyone. Kids enjoyed the chance to meet players and try their hand at batting.
Prof. Ngumi, in her address, expressed her pride in hosting the event and emphasized JKUAT’s commitment to promote sports and physical activities as a vital part of student life. She highlighted the university’s role in fostering talent and providing state-of-the-art facilities for sports development.
Prof. Ngumi was full of praise for partners who she lauded as key drivers in the development of the baseball grounds.
“Our partnership with IfWeBuildIt.Org exemplifies what can be achieved when organizations come together under a shared vision. Through our combined resources, expertise, and passion, we have created a platform that extends beyond JKUAT that will benefit the wider Nairobi community. Together, we are nurturing the next generation of leaders and athletes,” said Prof. Ngumi.
Carla Benini spoke highly of the new baseball grounds, noting its impact on the community. “The JKUAT baseball grounds are not just a sporting facility; they serve as a platform for job creation and personal growth,” she remarked.
“In pursuit of their passion, individuals involved in this sport are building a vibrant sense of community here at JKUAT. The partnerships that made this dream a reality deserve special recognition, as they have set a foundation for the future of baseball in Kenya.”
Mr. Dennis Munuve, representing the Ministry of Sports, echoed similar sentiments and commended the university and its partners for their dedication to the sport’s development.
“This tournament is a significant step towards diversifying our sports culture.Baseball provides not just a new avenue for athletes but also fosters unity and discipline among the youth. The Ministry is committed to supporting such initiatives that contribute to the overall growth of sports in Kenya,”
He pledged the government’ s support in promoting sporting activities across all the fields.