President William Ruto has made changes to the State House, Nairobi, to honor Kenyan sportspeople and athletes with notable achievements on the global stage.
In a spot check by The Kenya Times, a framed photo of Sebastian Sawe has been mounted on the State House wall, with details of his record-breaking 1:59:30 performance.
Since taking office in 2022, President William Ruto has hosted Kenyan athletes at the State House in Nairobi after major international competitions such as the Olympics and the World Athletics Championships.
State House Display Honours Record-Breaking Performance
The newly mounted photo of Sawe features his historic performance, with the displayed record time of 1:59: 30 prominently included as part of the tribute.
The photo installation is part of a broader effort to document and honour Kenya’s success in athletics, an area where the country has consistently produced world champions.
The display is intended to preserve moments of sporting excellence and to remind visiting guests and officials of Kenya’s global dominance in athletics.
Sawe’s inclusion in the State House gallery places him among a growing list of athletes recognized for their international achievements.
The presentation of such milestones at the State House also aligns with recent government engagements in which top-performing athletes are hosted at formal ceremonies.
During these receptions, athletes are welcomed with formal ceremonies that include group photos, speeches, and public recognition for their achievements.
The events are attended by sports officials and government leaders, with athletes being praised for raising Kenya’s global sporting profile.
After major championships, Team Kenya athletes were received at State House following airport welcomes at JKIA before being hosted for official ceremonies at the presidential residence.
Cash Prizes and Financial Rewards for Athletes
On April 30, President William Ruto has announced a significant increase in daily allowances for Kenyan sports teams competing internationally, in a move aimed at boosting athlete welfare and performance.
Under the new structure:
- Athletes will now receive $200 (KSh 25,840) per day, up from $50 (KSh6,452)
- Team officials will receive $300 (KSh 38,760) per day, up from $80 (Ksh 10,324)
This decision is expected to strengthen support for Kenyan athletes as they represent the nation on the global stage, including major competitions and championships.
Additionally, under the current system:
- Gold medalists to receive KSh 3 million from the government
- Silver medalists receive KSh 2 million
- Bronze medalists receive KSh 1 million
In addition, athletes receive presidential bonuses and additional State House rewards, especially for exceptional performances or world records.
Marathon champion Sebastian Sawe received a combined package, including presidential and gold-medal bonuses, totaling 8 million shillings after his record-breaking run.
In 2023, Faith Kipyegon, after breaking the world record in the Florence and Paris Diamond League was hosted at state house together with her family to celebrate her achievement
At State House, Kipyegon received KSh 5 million cash reward, Three-bedroom house worth KSh 6 million under affordable housing program.
Also in 2023, Omanyala, Africa’s fastest man and 100m champion, was rewarded for his sprint achievements and contribution to diversifying Kenya’s athletics success.
He received a State House breakfast reception and 2 million cash reward.
Also Read: Millions Kipyegon Chebet and Jepchirchir Will Pocket After Winning Gold in Tokyo World Athletics
Recognition of record-breakers and elite performers
Beyond standard medal awards, Ruto has also introduced extra recognition for standout athletes who break records or achieve historic milestones.
These include:
- Special State House presentations for world record holders
- Individualized cash awards beyond standard medal payouts
- Public commendations during official State House receptions
The government has also announced broader reward packages for athletes representing Kenya in global events, with total payouts reaching tens of millions for entire teams, depending on performance.
