Kenya’s 1,500M and 5000M champion Faith Kipyegon has been awarded Sh5 million in cash and a house worth Sh6 million for breaking two world records.
Kipyegon was hosted by President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua for breakfast at State House in Nairobi after jetting into the country on Tuesday.
Kipyegon achieved her world-breaking feats by setting new records in the women’s 5000m and 1500m races on June, 2 and June, 9.
President Ruto lauded Kipyegon for her achievements and for carrying the country’s flag high, saying the government will recognize and reward exceptional athletes who break world records.
“The government will grant Kipyegon a cash reward of Sh5 million and a house valued at Sh6 million for breaking two world records to recognize her accomplishments. A new policy will be introduced to award Kenyan athletes who set world records a sum of Sh5 million,” said the head of state.
Speaking during the ceremony, Ruto expressed confidence that the move will also provide dignity, boost morale and respect for the Kenyan athletes.
He also directed the Ababu Namwamba led sports ministry to establish a special sports and arts fund towards the welfare of the country’s sportsmen.
“Our sportsmen and women brand Kenya globally. We will honour and reward them accordingly. In our new plan to appreciate our gifted achievers in sports and the creatives, a world record breaker will be rewarded Sh5 Million and be considered for diplomatic passport and other national honours ” Ruto.
At the Paris Diamond League, she clocked a time of 14:05:20 in the 5000m, setting a record of being the first Kenyan woman to hold the world record in that category.
The 29 year old athlete surpassed the previous record holder, Letesenbet Gidey of Ethiopia, at the edge of 600m remaining in the race.
Earlier, on June 2, Kipyegon broke the world record in the 1500m race in Florence, Italy, breasting the tape at 3:49.11.
During the State Reception, Kipyegon, Ferdinand Omanyala, fast-rising stars Emmanuel Wanyonyi, Mary Moraa and the rest of World Beating Champions were also congratulated.
“Athletics, like other sports and creatives, is highly rewarding for those who give their all and remain resilient.
Meanwhile, prudent investment after such wins by our sports men and women is key for a dignified life after active years in their careers. To Ferdinard Omanyala and the other athletes, congratulations for stamping our authority in athletics.
You are all winners,” said the President.
The President also awarded the Common wealth and Africa 100M Champion Omanyala Sh.2 million.
