The government will also be building modern sports facilities in each of the country's provincial headquarters.

He further appreciated the role of sports in promoting good health and providing invaluable recreation for citizens adding that the industry promotes patriotism and national cohesiveness by availing forums for communities as well as individuals to interact freely.

President Kibaki assured the national team that the government had allocated enough resources through the Ministry of Youth and Sports to cater for all logistics in terms of equipment, uniforms,air tickets, accommodation and upkeep allowances.

"In this regard, let me assure you that my government fully supports you. We have, for instance, set aside over 100 million shillings (1.5 million dollars) to prepare and facilitate your participation in both the Olympic and Paralympic Games," he said.

Kibaki emphasized the role of sports in the modern society adding it was the key reason for the Government to initiate bold steps to strengthen the sports industry by steadily increasing funding and expanding investments in sports facilities.

He thanked the sports ministry in conjunction with stakeholders for their efforts to promote sports in the country and noted that Kenya's unrivalled achievements in sports are as a result of the dedication of sports persons and the technical staff who have defied many challenges.

"Among the athletes gathered here today, there are those who are ready to take over from the older generation and continue to raise the flag of our nation high. This succession is what has made Kenya a consistent high-flyer in sports," he said.

Thanking the coaches for the superior preparation they have given to the team President Kibaki also commended all sponsors and volunteers for their support to the team to ensure that the legacy of Kenya's legendary sportsmen and women will never fade.

He reassured the team that the attention and prayers of all Kenyans were with them adding the entire country shall break into celebration whenever they earned medals.

Kenya will be participating in five disciplines during the Beijing Olympics namely athletics, boxing, taekwondo, rowing and swimming.

(Xinhua News Agency July 29, 2008)