Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called for stronger collaboration between governments and the private sector, saying partnerships are critical in advancing shared development objectives across Commonwealth nations.
Dr Kindiki made the remarks while promoting the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) exhibition cricket match, an event expected to bring together leaders and participants from across the Commonwealth.
In a message ahead of the match, the Deputy President described himself as the captain of the wider Commonwealth team, using the sporting event to underscore the importance of unity, cooperation and collective action among member countries.
“Proud captain of the wider Commonwealth team. One Commonwealth, one team,” Dr Kindiki said, framing the exhibition match as a symbol of the shared aspirations of the 56 member Commonwealth.
He said the cricket encounter was intended to demonstrate the potential of governments working alongside the private sector in pursuit of common goals.
The Deputy President noted that bringing together public and private sector players could help strengthen cooperation and create opportunities for countries to address shared challenges.
“This match is supposed to show what governments can do when they get together with the private sector for purposes of pursuing common objectives,” he said.
Dr Kindiki’s message comes as preparations gather momentum for the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, which is expected to provide a platform for leaders to deliberate on issues affecting member states and explore avenues for deeper cooperation.
The exhibition cricket match is among the activities aimed at promoting the Commonwealth spirit of partnership, solidarity and mutual understanding.
By adopting the theme “One Commonwealth, One Team”, the event seeks to use sport as a platform for bringing together governments, businesses and other stakeholders around shared development priorities.
Cricket, a sport with a longstanding tradition in several Commonwealth countries, provides an opportunity for participants to engage beyond formal diplomatic and political engagements.
The Deputy President concluded his message with a rallying call to participants, saying: “Bravo. Let the match begin.”
The event is expected to highlight the role of sporting diplomacy in fostering relationships and strengthening ties among Commonwealth nations as they prepare for the 2026 summit.
