Ruto's bag of goodies for Tokyo champions

President William Ruto, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, congratulates Kenya's Olympic medalists during a cash award and housing pledge ceremony at State House, Nairobi. [PCS]

President William Ruto has awarded Kenya's Tokyo Olympic medalists Sh27 million in cash prizes and unveiled a housing plan for athletes, praising their discipline and grit at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday

The government disbursed Sh3 million for each gold medal, Sh2 million for silver, and Sh1 million for bronze.

Faith Kipyegon received Sh5 million after winning gold in the 1,500m and silver in the 5,000m, while Beatrice Chebet pocketed Sh6 million for gold in both the 10,000m and 5,000m events.

Gold medalists Faith Cherotich in the 3,000m steeplechase and Marathon queen Peres Chepchirchir received Sh3 million each.

Lilian Odira and Emmanuel Wanyonyi earned the same amount for their victories in the 800m. Edmund Serem and Reynold Cheruiyot received Sh1 million each for bronze medals in the 3,000m steeplechase and 1,500m respectively, while Dorcas Ewoi collected Sh2 million for silver in the 1,500m

"Before you left, you shared with me some of your concerns. I pledged that I would consider them and take immediate action. The first step was to ensure that your foreign allowances were enhanced and fully paid as you travelled," said Ruto

The President also announced that medalists will benefit from the Affordable Housing Project, similar to the scheme for CHAN footballers.

He said the government will cover half the cost of a house, with the option of a soft loan for the remainder repayable at Sh5,000 per month

"Let me set the record straight. There is no affordable house being dished out to anybody for free. Every house will be paid for, either by individuals or by the state on behalf of beneficiaries," noted Ruto.

Kenya ranked second globally among 198 participating nations, winning 11 medals-seven gold, two silver, and two bronze.

"You carried our flag with pride and proved we are a nation of champions. Every race you run and every medal you win reminds us that Kenya's destiny is not merely to participate but to triumph. Our athletes show us that excellence is earned through sacrifice, discipline, hard work, and courage," he added.

Ruto challenged leaders and citizens to emulate the athletes' pursuit of excellence in education, health, innovation, and governance.

"Average does not raise a flag, average does not unite a nation. Greatness and excellence do," he affirmed.