President William Ruto awards sportsmen at State House, Nairobi

 

President William Ruto during the launch of Talanta Plaza on September 01, 2023. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

President William Ruto on Friday, September 1 awarded sportsmen who represented Kenya in different games across the globe.

In an event held at State House, Nairobi, Ruto commended them for a good job done in raising the country’s flag high.

“Every time the National Anthem was played, I felt like a global leader in every aspect. It wasn’t me or CS Ababu Namwamba or anyone else who made it happen. It was you. So, you have our goodwill and support because you guys are great,” said Ruto.

Among those awarded include Faith Kipyegon, Mary Moraa, and Kenya’s volleyball team Malkia Strikers.

Kipyegon for bagging two gold medals was awarded Sh4 million while Moraa got herself Sh2 million.

Malkia Strikers together with their officials were awarded Sh4.3 million while the teams which engaged in beach games went home with Sh3.2 million.

Others who got awarded include youths who took part in the Youth Commonwealth games.

President William Ruto and school football star Adrine Kibet.[Stafford Ondego, Standard]

The event also saw the launching of Talanta Plaza, the official sports house for the sports department under the Ministry of Sports.

According to Ruto, having everything under one roof will help manage and cater to the needs of sportsmen in the country with ease.

“This is the new home for sports promotion. This building brings together all the ministry staff in one room which will promote collaboration and facilitate a constant exchange of ideas and knowledge across the ministry,” said the Head of State.

The ceremony comes weeks after the Sports Cabinet Secretary was accused of neglecting sportsmen and the Ministry at large.

Responding to issues raised by Members of Parliament, Namwamba said that he has never neglected his duties as the CS and will continue to support talents in the country no matter what.