Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga with Nastic Sports academy scouts at Sudi stadium in Bungoma
By Alex Wekesa
BUNGOMA, Kenya
A new dawn is breaking for young footballers in Western Kenya after Nastic Sports Academy, a prestigious international football institution based in Spain, officially launched a talent-scouting initiative in partnership with Kabuchai MP Majimbo Kalasinga.
Speaking during a press briefing at Sudi Stadium on Thursday, Kalasinga announced the launch of the program, which aims to identify and nurture exceptional football talent across the Western region.
The initiative will offer full scholarships covering both academic and football training at Nastic Sports Academy in Spain.
According to Kalasinga, each scholarship is valued at about KSh12 million per player and will cover tuition up to the university level, accommodation, training, medical insurance, and a guaranteed attachment to a professional football club within the European Union.
“This is a life-changing opportunity for our young people,” Kalasinga said. “We want to unlock their potential not only in sports but also in academics. The scholarships will support their education and give them exposure to international football standards.”
Kalasinga emphasized that the partnership is about more than just football—it’s a long-term investment in youth empowerment and development.
“As leaders, we must invest in our youth,” he said. “By partnering with institutions like Nastic Sports Academy, we are giving our children a passport to global opportunities. Sports is a multibillion-shilling industry, and we want our youth to have a seat at that table.”
The legislator urged other counties and constituencies to replicate similar initiatives to unlock Kenya’s sporting potential.
He expressed optimism that the program would expand to include more schools and participants, transforming Western Kenya into a regional hub for football excellence.
The inaugural edition, which kicked off this week, features six top-performing high school football teams from Bungoma and neighboring counties competing in a two-day scouting tournament.
The participating schools include St. Mary’s Kibabii Boys, Teremi Boys, and Bukembe Boys from Bungoma County; Vihiga Boys High School from Vihiga County; and St. Anthony Boys High School and St. Patrick’s Koikoi High School from Trans Nzoia County.
In the opening match on Thursday, St. Anthony Boys High School and St. Mary’s Kibabii Boys battled to a goalless draw in a tightly contested encounter that showcased the high level of discipline and skill among the players.
The final matches of the tournament are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025, after which scouts from Nastic Sports Academy are expected to make their final selections.
Among those present at the launch was David Kenga, a Kenyan-born representative of Nastic Sports Academy based in the United States.
Originally from Kilifi County, Kenga has been instrumental in identifying and supporting African football talent for international exposure.
“We believe in the power of football to transform lives,” Kenga said. “Nastic Sports Academy offers not just world-class training, but also academic excellence.
For us, discipline is as important as talent. We are looking for young people who are committed, respectful and ready to work hard.”
Kenga urged players to maintain discipline on and off the pitch, noting that character development is central to the academy’s philosophy.
He also cited the success of Kenyan players such as Aldrine Kibet and Amos Wanjala, both of whom trained with Nastic before joining professional clubs in Europe.
Spectators welcomed the initiative, saying it would motivate students to pursue excellence both academically and athletically.
“These are the kinds of opportunities we’ve been praying for,” said spectator Erick Makokha. “Our players are excited and determined. Whether selected or not, this exposure is invaluable.”
Students participating in the trials expressed hope that their performance would earn them a coveted spot at the Spanish academy, describing the program as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The final list of shortlisted players will be announced after Saturday’s matches.
Those selected will travel to Spain early next year to join Nastic Sports Academy.
Organizers say they are also exploring the possibility of setting up a regional satellite center in Kenya to provide year-round training for promising players.
