Safaricom, Kenya’s leading technology company, has taken a significant step to empower Kenyan athletes by providing comprehensive financial and digital literacy training ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The training, held in Eldoret, saw over 40 athletes and their coaches receive training on various financial management skills, including budgeting, saving, investing, and understanding financial products and services.
The event also witnessed the unveiling of 1500m and 5000m world record holder Faith Kipyegon as Safaricom’s brand ambassador for the “Sisi Wote Ni Mabingwa” campaign.
Kipyegon praised the initiative, stating that it has provided her with valuable knowledge on financial management that will benefit her throughout her career and beyond.
The training was part of Safaricom’s commitment to supporting the holistic development of athletes, not just on the track and field but also in their personal lives. The company believes in the power of sports to inspire and unite communities.
In addition to financial management, athletes were also trained on personal branding, effective communication strategies, handling interviews, managing social media, and dealing with the press. The sessions included hands-on practice and real-world scenarios to help athletes build confidence to present themselves positively in the media spotlight.
This is not the first time Safaricom has provided such training. Two weeks ago, a similar training was held at the Team Kenya training camp at Kasarani Stadium, benefiting the Kenya 7s Rugby team, Shujaa and the National Volleyball team, the Malkia Strikers.
Safaricom has also committed KES 30 million in cash and kind for Team Kenya for the upcoming Paris Olympics in France. The sponsorship includes travel insurance for athletes, airtime, and data bundles to support Team Kenya. Additionally, the company has provided financial literacy workshops and media training sessions for athletes during their camps and workshop sessions.
The Olympic Games will take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024.
