Wamuzi News Ke
In a surprise move that has electrified Kenya’s athletics community, President William Ruto today confirmed that the government has released Ksh27 million in direct bonus payments to the 11 medalists of the World Athletics Championships 2025 in Tokyo. The announcement came during a breakfast event at State House with the national athletics team.
Bonus Breakdown and Housing Offer
In outlining the disbursement, President Ruto declared that:
- Each gold medalist will receive Ksh3 million
- Each silver medalist will receive Ksh2 million
- Each bronze medalist will be awarded Ksh1 million
Beyond cash bonuses, Ruto went further—promising that the government will pay half the cost of an affordable housing unit for gold medalists. If an athlete cannot cover the remaining half, a “soft loan” will be made available.
Stellar Performance, National Pride
The Kenyan team delivered a dominant showing in Tokyo, earning 7 gold, 2 silver, and 2 bronze medals — placing the country second globally among 194 competing nations.
Noteworthy performances included multiple golds from athletes such as Beatrice Chebet, Faith Kipyegon, Peres Jepchirchir, Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Faith Cherotich, and Lilian Odira. Chebet notably won both the 10,000m and 5,000m golds.
Huge Impact, But Questions Remain
This generous payout is historic, but it also opens the door to scrutiny:
- Can the government sustain regular bonus payments for elite athletes?
- Will silver and bronze earners demand parity in housing or additional incentives?
- How will this reward policy affect funding for grassroots athletics and youth development?
- Observers are watching how the soft loan housing provision will be structured, administered, and repaid.
Stephen Musungu
