Aston Lukoye
Kenya is implementing a new plan to elevate its profile as a top sporting nation by introducing rewards and privileges for Athletes’ world record holders.
Under this plan, the new world record holder will receive a cash prize of Ksh 5 million (Kenyan shillings) and be granted a diplomatic passport, along with other national honors and privileges. President William Ruto announced that the government is working on refining policies and facilities to harness the country’s sporting potential.
Athletes honours
President Ruto emphasized the importance of recognizing and honoring the achievements of Kenyan sportsmen and women, who have promoted Kenya’s reputation globally.
He described them as heroes and acknowledged their invaluable contributions to the country’s iconic brand. The State Reception held at State House, Nairobi, was specifically organized to celebrate Faith Kipyegon and Ferdinand Omanyala.
Faith Kipyegon recently made history by setting two world records within a week, breaking the 1,500 meters in Florence, Italy, and the 5,000 meters in Paris, France.
President Ruto commended her for being a role model of consistency, discipline, hard work, and family values. He highlighted her remarkable achievements as a wife, mother, legendary Olympian, multiple World Champion, and now a world record holder.
“Our sportsmen and women are heroes who have promoted Kenya’s iconic brand globally; we want to acknowledge their invaluable contribution by honouring and rewarding them accordingly.”
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“Faith stands as a shining role model for consistency, discipline, hard work and family values. Here is a mother, a wife and a legendary Olympian, multiple World Champion who now holds two brand new world records and is a wife and mother to boot,” noted President Ruto.
Athlete praises
President Ruto also praised Ferdinand Omanyala, the African Champion in explosive sprints, as well as Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Mary Moraa, the rising stars in the 800 meters category. He encouraged them to continue their pursuit of a golden future in athletics.
The State Reception was attended by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, and Webuye West MP Dan Wanyama. Deputy President Gachagua stressed the importance of discipline and focus among sportsmen and called for the monetization of sports to harness its full potential in driving the country’s economic growth.
