Silverio Omari
Team Kenya’s Olympic champions are set to travel to Eldoret State Lodge on President William Ruto’s aircraft for a grand reception.
State House Press Secretary Emmanuel Talam announced that the athletes currently in Nairobi will be flown to Eldoret aboard the presidential jet. They will then enjoy a ceremonial drive to the State Lodge for breakfast before proceeding to the Sports Club for the City of Champions inauguration.
Civilians generally cannot fly on the presidential jet unless invited by the President for official functions or state visits. Government delegations, high-ranking officials, and those involved in critical state matters or emergencies may also be allowed to use the jet, subject to strict protocols and approvals.
The team, which represented Kenya at the Paris 2024 Olympics, returned to the country on Tuesday and Wednesday and was welcomed by Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen.
The champions included Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet (who won double gold), Koitatoi Kidali (800m), Emmanuel Wanyonyi (800m gold), Benson Kipruto (marathon bronze), and Ronald Kwemoi (5000m silver).
Murkomen praised the team for securing 11 medals—four gold, two silver, and five bronze—placing Kenya as the top African nation and 17th globally.
In addition to the grand reception, the champions will receive cash prizes. Chebet, who became the first Kenyan woman to win double gold, will receive Sh13 million. World Athletics has set aside Sh6.5 million for gold medalists in track and field events. Kipyegon will receive Sh11 million, Wanyonyi Sh8.5 million, and Kwemboi Sh2 million. Athletes who finished third will each receive Sh1 million, including Mary Moraa (800m), Faith Cherotich (3000m steeplechase), Abraham (3000m steeplechase), Hellen Obiri (marathon), and Benson Kipruto (marathon).
The government has also confirmed it will award Sh3 million to each gold medalist.
Dj Vnyash
