President William Ruto on Tuesday, June 13 rewarded athlete Faith Kipyegon for her exceptional performances in the Florence and Paris Diamond Leagues.
Speaking at State House in Nairobi shortly after the athlete jetted back into the country, Ruto announced that Kipyegon would be granted a house worth Ksh6 million, along with a Ksh5 million cash prize in recognition of her record-breaking achievements.
"For every world record broken by a Kenyan, the government of Kenya is going to award Ksh5 million," Ruto stated.
"She has won and broken two world records in 1,500 meters and 5,000 metres. The government of Kenya is going to award her Ksh5 million for the 1,500 metres record and we are going to give her a house worth Ksh6 million in appreciation of the second 5,000 metres record," Ruto added.
Kipyegon's new 3-bedroomed house is based in Parklands Nairobi and was built under the Affordable Housing Program.
Ruto also gifted 100 metres African Champion for 2023, Ferdinand Omanyala, Ksh2 million, for setting the pace for other athletes in the short races.
The Head of State emphasized that these awards were intended to celebrate athletes who are proudly representing Kenya on the international stage and to assist them in planning their economic futures even as they improve on their fine performances.
However, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua advised athletes to invest wisely. He noted that the government was concerned by cases of athletes sinking into poverty despite winning millions in their prime. Gachagua volunteered to give interested athletes investment tips.
"Faith, should you have a problem knowing how exactly you can invest in and whatever you are going to earn, I'm available. I'm a very prudent businessman. I can guide you to make sure that you succeed," Gachagua stated.
Besides teaching them financial literacy, Ruto and his Deputy vowed to divert more funds to the sports sector, which they insisted was key to motivating other talented Kenyans.
Ruto also ordered the immigration department to issue diplomatic passports to athletes who excel to help ease their travels.
After receiving the award, the emotional athlete announced that she would honour her father's wish by buying him a car.
