President William Ruto has recognized Kenya’s Olympic medalists with substantial cash rewards for their outstanding performances at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The awards were presented during a breakfast meeting at the Eldoret State Lodge on Thursday, August 15, 2024.
At the ceremony, President Ruto announced that gold medalists would receive sh. 3 million each, silver medalists sh. 2 million, and bronze medalists sh. 1 million.
Beatrice Chebet, who won gold in both the 5000m and 10,000m races, was awarded a total of sh. 6 million.
Faith Kipyegon and Emmanuel Wanyonyi, who won gold in the 1500m and 800m events respectively, received sh. 3 million each.
Kipyegon also received an additional sh. 2 million for her silver medal in the 5000m, bringing her total to sh. 5 million.
Her silver medal was reinstated after a successful appeal against her initial disqualification.
Ronald Kwemoi, who earned a silver medal in the men’s 5000m, was awarded sh. 2 million.
Additionally, Benson Kipruto, Abraham Kibiwot, and Mary Moraa, who won bronze in the men’s marathon, men’s 3000m steeplechase, and women’s 800m respectively, each received sh. 1 million.
In June 2023, President Ruto had promised generous rewards for Kenyan athletes breaking world records, pledging sh. 5 million for each achievement.
This promise was made during a meeting with Faith Kipyegon, who had recently broken two world records in the 1500m and 5000m.
“Our new plan to honor our top athletes includes a sh. 5 million reward for world record breakers, along with consideration for a diplomatic passport and other national honors,” President Ruto had stated.
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