Former world javelin champion Julius Yego has voiced his frustration over the government’s failure to honor Kenyan athletes with State Commendations during the recent Jamhuri Day celebrations. The 61st Jamhuri Day, held at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi, saw various commendations awarded, but no athlete was recognized with prestigious honors such as the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS), Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW), or Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH).
This omission comes despite a stellar year for Kenyan athletes, particularly at the Paris 2024 Olympics and the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. Kenyan sports personalities delivered remarkable performances throughout the year, yet their achievements went unnoticed during the national celebrations. Yego, a past recipient of the OGW award, expressed his disappointment, pointing out the inconsistency in celebrating athletes’ achievements.
In a social media post, Yego lamented the lack of recognition for athletes who have brought immense pride to the nation. He highlighted the irony of widespread celebrations on social media when athletes win on the global stage, contrasting it with the government’s failure to acknowledge their contributions during such significant occasions. He further urged for consistency in honoring athletes, suggesting that if their victories are not valued in national recognition, they should not be used for celebratory posts either.
The absence of recognition was particularly glaring given the outstanding performances by Kenyan athletes at the Paris Olympics. Beatrice Chebet, for instance, won two gold medals, cementing her status as one of the country’s most accomplished athletes. Similarly, Emmanuel Wanyonyi clinched gold in the 800m and followed it up with a victory in the Diamond League, showcasing the depth of talent in Kenyan athletics.
Beyond athletics, the Junior Starlets made history by becoming the first-ever Kenyan team to qualify for a FIFA World Cup. Despite this groundbreaking achievement, neither the team’s coach, Jackline Juma, nor any of the players received recognition. This omission was a stark contrast to last year’s celebrations when athletes like Faith Kipyegon, Hellen Obiri, Mary Moraa, and Ferdinand Omanyala were honored for their contributions to Kenyan sports.
Faith Kipyegon, a three-time Olympic champion, was previously awarded the EGH, the highest honor in Kenya, in recognition of her remarkable career and achievements. Similarly, marathoner Hellen Obiri and world 800m champion Mary Moraa received the OGW, while Ferdinand Omanyala was conferred with the Moran of the Burning Spear (MBS). These honors reflected the government’s acknowledgment of the pivotal role athletes play in elevating Kenya’s global stature.
The omission of athletes in this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations raises questions about the criteria used to determine honorees and the consistency in recognizing excellence across different fields. Kenyan athletes have consistently put the country on the global map, earning accolades and breaking records. Their dedication and achievements not only inspire millions but also contribute to national pride and identity.
The lack of recognition also highlights broader issues regarding the treatment of sports in Kenya. Despite their success, many athletes face challenges such as inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, and lack of support. National honors serve as a form of encouragement and appreciation, acknowledging the sacrifices and hard work that go into achieving greatness in sports.
Moving forward, there is a need for the government to reevaluate its approach to recognizing athletes. National celebrations like Jamhuri Day and Mashujaa Day provide an opportunity to honor those who have made significant contributions to the country. By overlooking athletes, the state risks sending a message that their achievements are undervalued.
Kenyan athletes continue to excel on the global stage, bringing glory to the nation and inspiring future generations. It is only fitting that their efforts are acknowledged and celebrated at home. As Yego and others have pointed out, consistent recognition is essential to ensure that their contributions are not only celebrated but also remembered as part of the country’s rich heritage.
