Widow of Kenya's First Gold Medalist Lives in Abject Poverty After Selling Property

Photo collage of late gold medalist Naftali Temu during the 1968 Mexico Olympics and Pacificah Mong'ina speaking on Monday May 22, 2023
Photo collage of late gold medalist Naftali Temu during the 1968 Mexico Olympics and Pacificah Mong'ina speaking on Monday, May 22, 2023.
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Olympics

Pacificah Mong'ina, the widow of Kenya's first gold medalist, Naftali Temu, on Monday, May 22, pleaded with President William Ruto's administration to aid her pay the medical bills.

Mong'ina, whose husband won Kenya's first gold medal in 10,000 metres race at the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City, lamented that she had depleted all her resources while seeking better health care.

In a media interview, the widow narrated living in abject poverty since Kenya's first gold medalist passed on. 

"Ever since my husband passed on, I have lived in abject poverty. I have spent all my money on my medical bills," she stated.

Photo collage of Pacificah Mong'ina addressing the media on Monday May 22, 2023
Photo collage of Pacificah Mong'ina addressing the media on Monday, May 22, 2023.
Kenyans.co.ke

"I now want the government to intervene and help me offset some medical expenses. I have been struggling with my legs for some time. The bills have emptied my pockets," she added.

Mong'ina disclosed that her husband did not accumulate much wealth as he ran for prestige and loyalty to the nation. However, he was able to build a home where they resided after he retired from athletics.

The veteran later resolved into poultry farming in North Mugirango. Proceeds from the farm sustained the family after Temu passed on in 2003.

"I have sold some of my property, including cattle. I have moved from one hospital to the next. Right now, I cannot afford it," she lamented.

The 77-year-old widow pleaded with President Ruto's administration to help her and other legendary athletes living in poverty.

Temu was considered one of the pioneers of Kenyan long-distance running. His victory in the 10,000 meters at the 1968 Olympics helped to put Kenya on the map as a major force in the sport.

He is also remembered for his courage and determination, which helped him to overcome the challenges of running at high altitudes.

The deceased continued competing after the Olympics but never won another major championship. He retired from athletics in 1973 and later ran a farm in North Mugirango. He passed on in 2003 at the age of 57.

The late Naftali Temu competiting in the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City
The late Naftali Temu competiting in the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City.
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Olympics