Speaking during the National Aquatics Annual General Meeting (AGM) held over the weekend, where stakeholders overwhelmingly passed a motion of no confidence that led to the removal of the President, Treasurer, and Assistant Treasurer from office, Kiambu County Aquatics Association (KCAA) Chairman Mr. Kioko said the developments reflected a growing demand for leadership that remains focused on the core mission of serving the sport and its stakeholders.
Mr. Kioko noted that in many sports organizations, leadership can gradually drift away from its foundational responsibilities when priorities shift from grassroots development and institutional growth to activities that benefit only a select few. He observed that while international exposure, overseas engagements, and scholarship opportunities are important components of athlete development, they should complement—not replace—investment in local structures.
According to him, the strength of any aquatics federation is measured by the quality of its grassroots programs, the development of coaches and officials, the accessibility of competitions, and the opportunities available to all athletes across the country.
He emphasized that sustainable success cannot be achieved by focusing solely on elite pathways while neglecting the systems that nurture future generations of swimmers. Instead, he called for a balanced approach that promotes both international opportunities and robust local development.
Mr. Kioko further stated that Kiambu County Aquatics Association has remained committed to this vision, guided by its constitution and the principles of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.
He highlighted the establishment of the KCAA physical office as a practical demonstration of that commitment, describing it as a central hub where members, athletes, coaches, parents, officials, and stakeholders can freely engage with the association, seek assistance, share their views, and gain a better understanding of its programs and operations.
He encouraged members of the aquatics community to actively utilize the office and participate in shaping the future of the sport within the county.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Kioko said that true progress in aquatics is not determined by the number of international trips undertaken or opportunities secured for a handful of athletes, but by the strength, accessibility, and sustainability of the systems built for everyone. He expressed confidence that the decisions made at the AGM would usher in a renewed era of accountability, unity, and grassroots-driven growth for aquatics in Kenya.