Govt To Honour These Athletes With Ksh70 Million Compensation
Mvurya described the funding as a move to right past wrongs
Marvin Chege 
Athletes who delivered outstanding performances in previous competitions but were never recognised by the government are finally set to receive compensation under new reforms introduced by the Ministry of Sports.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 9, Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya announced that the government has set aside Ksh70 million to honour and compensate these overlooked athletes for their past achievements.
Speaking during a press briefing at Talanta Plaza on Tuesday, Mvurya described the funding as a move to right past wrongs, reaffirming the government’s dedication to restoring justice and honour to the men and women who have represented Kenya in international athletics events.
Faith Kipyegon presented with a dummy cheque by Cabinet Secretary of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports Salim Mvurya at the Talanza Plaza on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. /MINISTRY OF SPORTS
“This is about justice, dignity, and acknowledging the sacrifices and victories of every Kenyan athlete,” Mvurya said.
The CS explained that the compensation plan is part of a broader overhaul of Kenya’s elite athlete support system. This initiative is anchored in the newly revised National Sports Policy and was approved by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) in April 2025.
The updated framework aims to align support for athletes with their evolving needs, the rising cost of living, and global standards in sports welfare.
Beyond compensating previously overlooked athletes, the Ministry also unveiled several new measures to enhance the well-being of sportsmen and women. These include financial rewards, mental health and wellness support, improved international travel arrangements, and expanded medical coverage.
The government further revealed plans to roll out scholarship programmes, post-career transition support, and stronger collaborations with sports federations.
A major highlight of the reforms is the significant increase in cash rewards. Olympic and Paralympic gold medalists will now earn Ksh3 million—quadruple the previous Ksh750,000. Silver medalists will take home Ksh2 million (up from Ksh500,000), while bronze winners will receive Ksh1 million (previously Ksh350,000).
Athletes who shine at the Commonwealth Games will also benefit from higher payouts. Gold medalists will now receive Ksh2.5 million, silver winners Ksh1.5 million, and bronze medalists Ksh1 million—up from a top prize of Ksh500,000 under the old system.
On Tuesday, Mvurya awarded Ksh5 million each to Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet, in recognition of their stellar performances at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon, shortly after they returned to the country on July 8.
On Sunday, July 6, Kipyegon bounced back from the disappointment of her recent Breaking4 attempt by smashing her record at the Prefontaine Classic Diamond League. In her first Diamond League race of the season, she clocked an impressive 3 minutes 48.68 seconds.
Meanwhile, Chebet continued her rise as a dominant force in the women’s 5000m, making history as the first woman to run the event in under 14 minutes. She crossed the finish line in 13:58.06, setting a new record in the process.
Cabinet Secretary of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy & Sports, Salim Mvurya, alongside Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet, at the Talanza Plaza on Tuesday, July 8, 2025. /MINISTRY OF SPORTS
