Kenyan medallists to fly business class after strong showing at World Championships

Beatrice Chebet/ HANDOUT

All Kenyan medallists at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo will return home in business class as the government moves to recognise their efforts.

Evans Achoki, the Administrative Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, also confirmed that athletes’ allowances have been fully paid, following President William Ruto’s directive.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya is expected to arrive in Tokyo on Friday to meet the athletes and oversee final engagements.

Barnaba Korir, chair of the Athletics Kenya Youth Development Committee, welcomed the move, calling it a timely morale boost for athletes still in action.

Korir believes the medals won so far are only the beginning.

“We are not yet done with medals. What we have reaped so far is just the beginning of better things to come in the next few days,” he said.

The team’s energy was lifted by Peris Jepchirchir’s gold in the women’s marathon. Strong performances have followed — not just from medallists but also those building experience for future championships.

Korir pointed to the rise of new talent in key events. In the 1500m, Dorcus Ewoi and Nelly Chepchirchir are seen as natural successors to Faith Kipyegon. In the 3,000m steeplechase, Edmund Serem claimed bronze, showing depth in the men’s team.

“The truth of the matter is that more medals will flow in,” Korir said.

Many of these athletes, including Mary Moraa (800m) and Reynold Cheruiyot (1500m), came through Kenya’s youth structures — from U18 to U20 and now senior level. Korir said this pipeline is working and should be supported further.

He urged the government to continue improving sports infrastructure. Work is already underway to lay a new track at Kasarani Stadium, and an AstroTurf is being installed at Nyayo Stadium.

Korir praised athletes now venturing into less traditional areas for Kenya — such as field events and sprints — saying this shift was inspired by stars like Julius Yego (javelin) and Ferdinand Omanyala (100m).

Although most sprinters exited in early rounds, their participation signals growth. For the first time, Kenya will field a women’s javelin thrower, Irene Chelagat, at the World Championships.

On doping compliance, Korir said Kenya is working with WADA to resolve outstanding issues. Talks have already been held with WADA representatives and Members of Parliament, led by Webuye MP Dan Wanyama. Further discussions are expected once CS Mvurya arrives.

“We have had very fruitful talks,” Korir said.