President William Ruto has announced changes to Kenya’s reward system for athletes who win in their disciplines in cross-border events.
Speaking on Thursday, August 28, 2025, Ruto said the revision to the cash award scheme is to ensure the country’s champions are acknowledged in a manner that reflects their sacrifice and hard work.
In the changes, the award package for individual Olympic gold medalists has risen from KSh750,000 to KSh3 million, silver from KSh500,000 to KSh2 million, and bronze from KSh350,000 to KSh1 million.
In team sports, the award per athlete has increased from KSh100,000 to KSh750,000 for gold, from KSh75,000 to KSh500,000 for silver, and from KSh50,000 to KSh375,000 for bronze.
“So far, the Ministry has scheduled payouts amounting to KSh 55 million for recent sporting events, alongside an additional KSh15 million for record-breaking performances,” Ruto stated.
Ruto also revealed that the Cabinet Secretary in charge of Sports may, on the recommendation of the Awards and Recognition Committee, recommend payment of winning bonuses to teams and athletes engaged in qualifications for major championships as an impetus for attaining qualification, bonuses of up to Ksh2.5 million.
The president has also promised that the government is investing in sporting facilities across the country, with a promise to build 25 new stadia.
“Beyond rewards, we are investing heavily in sports infrastructure. From the successful hosting of CHAN, which showcased our readiness to stage major continental events, to the construction and renovation of world-class stadiums, we are building facilities that will serve athletes and communities alike for generations,” he stated.
“From Talanta Sports City to the renovation of Kasarani and Nyayo Stadiums and the upgrading of regional facilities like Eliud Kipchoge Stadium, Bukhungu Stadium, and Raila Odinga Stadium, we are ensuring Kenya has venues that meet international standards and leave a lasting impact long after the games are over.”
Further, Ruto revealed that the government has launched 37 Constituency Sports Academies to guarantee every region access to structured training, mentorship, and opportunity.
The government is also reviewing the Sports Policy of 2005 and the Sports Act of 2013 to address governance, athlete welfare, doping control, and the integration of technology in modern sports management.
Ruto hails Stars
Ruto has also hailed national football team Harambee Stars for their stellar performance during CHAN 2024 games, where they exited the competition at the quarter finals stage.
“We are all immensely proud of the performance of our Harambee Stars in this year’s CHAN Before the competition began, few believed we would progress beyond the group stages. We were drawn into what many called the “group of death”, alongside CHAN giants like Morocco and DR Congo — nations that between them have lifted the trophy four times,” he said.
“Yet, against all odds, our team topped the group. This remarkable achievement has reminded us that when Kenyans play with heart, discipline, and unity, there is no obstacle too great to overcome.”
Read: Interior PS Dr Raymond Omollo Hails Kenyan Fans As True Heroes Of CHAN 2024
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