President William Ruto has honored Kenya’s medal-winning athletes from the Paris 2024 Olympics with substantial cash prizes, underscoring the country’s pride in their historic achievements. The celebration took place on Thursday at the Eldoret State Lodge, where President Ruto hosted the athletes and commended their outstanding performances on the global stage.
The Kenyan team’s remarkable success at the Olympics saw the country rank 17th in the medal standings, an impressive feat that placed Kenya at the pinnacle of African sports achievements. In recognition of their exceptional accomplishments, President Ruto presented gold medallists Beatrice Chebet, Faith Kipyegon, and Emmanuel Wanyonyi with Ksh. 3 million each. Chebet’s victories in the 10,000 and 5,000 meters, Kipyegon’s triumph in the 1500 meters, and Wanyonyi’s success in the 800 meters were celebrated as remarkable feats of athletic excellence.
In addition, Faith Kipyegon and Ronald Kwemoi, who earned silver in the 5,000 meters, were awarded Ksh. 2 million each. The bronze medallists—Mary Moraa (800 meters), Abraham Kibiwott (Steeplechase), Faith Cherotich (Steeplechase), Benson Kipruto (Marathon), and Hellen Obiri (Marathon)—each received Ksh. 1 million. This generous distribution of prizes reflects the nation’s recognition of the athletes’ hard work and dedication.
During the event, President Ruto praised the athletes for their perseverance and for elevating Kenya’s status in global athletics. “You have not only made Kenya proud but have also set a benchmark for future generations. Your dedication and excellence have brought honor to our nation, and we celebrate you today,” he stated.
The President also emphasized his administration’s commitment to supporting athletes and enhancing Kenya’s sports infrastructure. “We are determined to expand and upgrade our sports facilities to ensure that our athletes have the best environment to train and excel,” Ruto remarked. He also called on the private sector to join in these efforts, underscoring the importance of collaborative investment in sports development.
Looking ahead, President Ruto highlighted the need to address challenges that could affect Kenya’s future performances, particularly the issue of doping. “We must deal with doping firmly and decisively to safeguard our talented athletes and ensure that our achievements are built on integrity and fairness,” he said. This statement reflects a growing concern about maintaining the credibility and fairness of competitive sports, emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach towards substance abuse.
The President’s remarks were not just about celebrating past achievements but also about laying the groundwork for future successes. The administration’s plans include improving training facilities, offering more support to athletes, and fostering a sports culture that encourages young talents to aspire and achieve greatness.
In conclusion, the celebration at Eldoret State Lodge was a significant moment for Kenyan sports, highlighting the country’s commitment to recognizing and supporting its athletes. The cash prizes awarded by President Ruto not only acknowledge the athletes’ individual successes but also symbolize a broader national commitment to fostering athletic talent and ensuring continued excellence on the world stage. As Kenya continues to inspire with its sporting prowess, the administration’s focus on infrastructure and integrity promises a bright future for its athletes.
