Kenyan athlethes set for bigger cash prizes, benefits in new proposal

Kenyan athletes could soon enjoy bigger cash prizes and long-term benefits for breaking world records and winning medals if a new motion before Parliament sails through.

The proposal, introduced by Mwingi West MP Charles Ngusya, seeks to create a standardised reward scheme for athletes and sportsmen who represent Kenya on the international stage.

If passed, the motion would see athletes who set new world records earn Sh6 million, while gold medalists would walk away with Sh4 million. Silver and bronze winners would receive Sh3 million and Sh2 million, respectively.

But the incentives go beyond cash rewards.

The motion proposes additional benefits such as diplomatic passports for established sports personalities, appointments as goodwill ambassadors, the conferment of national honours, comprehensive medical cover, and a retirement and social protection scheme.

The latter would include contributory insurance and savings plans to cushion athletes once they retire.

Ngusya argues that Kenya’s global reputation as a sports powerhouse has not translated into adequate welfare support for athletes.

Many, he said, continue to face financial hardship, lack of social protection, and even mental health struggles during and after their careers.

“Kenya’s Vision 2030 recognises sports as a pillar of national pride and development, but the current systems remain inadequate. This scheme would both inspire athletes to achieve more and safeguard their welfare beyond their sporting years,” the MP stated.

If adopted, the motion would compel the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts to design a framework for implementing the proposed rewards and protections.

The debate comes hot on the heels of Kenya’s strong showing at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where the country finished second on the medal table with 11 medals.

The gold medal haul included Lilian Odira (800m), Emmanuel Wanyonyi (800m), Faith Kipyegon (1,500m), Faith Cherotich (3,000m steeplechase), Beatrice Chebet (5,000m & 10,000m), and Peres Jepchirchir (marathon).

Faith Kipyegon and Dorcas Ewoi secured silver medals in the 5,000m and 1,500m, respectively, while Edmund Serem (3,000m steeplechase) and Reynold Cheruiyot (1,500m) bagged bronze.

The motion also comes just weeks after President William Ruto announced enhanced incentives for medal winners.

Gold medalists will now receive Sh3 million, up from Sh750,000, with silver and bronze winners earning Sh2 million and Sh1 million respectively. Daily allowances for athletes representing Kenya abroad were also raised from $60 (Sh7,800) to $200 (Sh26,000), while those for officials increased from $80 to $300.

“We have also enhanced rewards for winners in the Commonwealth Games. The new package raises cash awards for gold medal winners from Sh500,000 to Sh2.5 million, silver from Sh300,000 to Sh1.5 million, and bronze from Sh200,000 to Sh1 million,” President Ruto said, adding that further reviews are underway to strengthen the sporting spirit in Kenya.