President William Ruto has announced a major increase in cash prizes for Kenyan athletes, raising rewards by up to 400 percent.
Speaking at State House during a luncheon with the Harambee Stars on Thursday, August 28, Ruto said the government has taken deliberate steps to recognize and reward excellence in sports.
“We have revised the cash reward scheme to ensure our champions are acknowledged in a manner that reflects their sacrifice and hard work,” he stated.
Under the new scheme, the prize for individual Olympic medalists has significantly increased, with gold winners now set to receive Ksh 3 million, up from Ksh 750,000.
At the same time, silver medalists will get Ksh 2 million, up from Ksh 500,000; while bronze winners will take home Ksh 1 million, up from Ksh 350,000.
Ruto Introduces New Championship Bonuses
In team sports, each athlete will now earn Ksh 750,000 for gold, up from Ksh 100,000, Ksh 500,000 for silver, up from Ksh 75,000, and Ksh 375,000 for bronze, up from Ksh 50,000.
Ruto further mentioned that the Ministry of Sports has so far scheduled payouts amounting to Ksh 55 million for recent sporting events, in addition to Ksh 15 million set aside for record-breaking performances.
Additionally, he announced that Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya for Sports will, upon the recommendation of the Awards and Recognition Committee, approve the payment of winning bonuses to teams and athletes participating in qualification rounds for major championships.
To provide an added incentive for securing a qualification, the bonuses will up to Ksh 2.5 million.
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Meanwhile, Ruto said the government is prioritising long-term projects that will benefit athletes and communities across the country.
He noted that the successful hosting of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) demonstrated Kenya’s readiness to stage major continental events.
The President pointed to ongoing projects, including the construction of Talanta Sports City, the renovation of Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums, and the upgrading of regional facilities such as Eliud Kipchoge Stadium, Bukhungu Stadium, and Raila Odinga Stadium.
According to him, these developments will ensure Kenya has venues that meet international standards and continue to serve future generations.
Ruto Urges Corporations to Support Kenyan Athletes
On talent development, Ruto said the Talanta Hela initiative is empowering thousands of young Kenyans to monetise their skills and build careers in sports and the creative economy.
He added that 37 Constituency Sports Academies have already been launched to provide structured training, mentorship, and opportunities in every region.
Also Read: Ruto Increases Millions for Harambee Stars, Announces Housing Rewards
At the policy level, the government is reviewing the Sports Policy of 2005 and the Sports Act of 2013 to create a more inclusive, transparent, and commercially viable ecosystem.
The reforms will address governance, athlete welfare, doping control, and the integration of technology in modern sports management.
Ruto emphasised that stakeholders across all counties are being engaged to ensure the new framework reflects the aspirations of every Kenyan.
“I wish to appreciate the contribution of corporate partners who have already come on board to support our sportsmen and women. I call on more corporates to join us in investing in our athletes’ programmes,” he said.
“Your partnership is vital, your belief in the process is essential. Together, we can build a thriving sports culture that empowers our youth, strengthens our economy, and unites our nation.”
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