Nairobi, October 2- President William Ruto has unveiled a new policy aimed at boosting Kenyan sports by recruiting 500 athletes into the country’s disciplined forces. The initiative is designed to give athletes access to structured training, modern equipment, and long-term financial stability.
The announcement came during a State House breakfast in honour of the Kenyan team that excelled at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Kenya won 11 medals—seven gold, two silver, and two bronze—finishing second globally behind the United States.
Under the new recruitment plan, 200 athletes will join the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), 150 will be absorbed into the National Police Service (NPS), while the remaining 150 will be distributed among the Kenya Prisons Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, and the National Youth Service (NYS).
To further reward the athletes’ success, President Ruto confirmed that Sh27 million would be distributed to the medallists, with gold winners receiving Sh3 million each, silver medallists Sh2 million, and bronze winners Sh1 million. Additionally, the government will cover half the cost of an affordable home of choice for every medallist.
The President also directed reforms at the Anti-Doping Agency of Kenya (ADAK), instructing the sports ministry to professionalise its operations in line with global standards to protect the integrity of Kenyan athletics. He reiterated that the Sports Fund will be used exclusively for sports development.
Commending the athletes, Ruto said Kenya had proven itself a nation of excellence on the global stage and urged citizens to embrace a culture of greatness. He also pointed to ongoing reforms in agriculture, education, and health as part of his broader vision for national transformation.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Sports CS Salim Mvurya joined in celebrating the team’s achievements, with Mvurya assuring that past challenges like poor accommodation for athletes had been addressed. Double medallist Faith Kipyegon expressed gratitude to the government for its support.
