The two parties signed a new six-year deal of KSh10.5 million (US$121,000) which focuses on identifying and nurturing developing football talent from the grassroots to the national level.
Speaking during the launch of third edition of the Airtel Rising Stars (ARS) football talent search programme, education cabinet secretary Kiragu Migochi said: “Our education system is geared towards providing a diversified and holistic programme and one devoid of sports cannot be termed as one. We must appreciate sports as an industry that can provide a career for our talented and gifted children.”
Dick Omondi, Airtel Kenya brand and corporate communications director, said: “Airtel Kenya is excited to sponsor the Airtel Rising Stars programme for the second year as this has provided an opportunity for us to connect and empower communities through football.”
Earlier this year, Airtel announced a partnership with Samsung to support ARS which is the largest under 17 grassroots tournament on the African continent.
The initiative was launched in 2011 in conjunction with Manchester United.
It runs in all Airtel operations across Africa and seeks to bring to light the skills of these young and talented ones by giving them the platform to become world class football stars.