Nairobi — Kenyan athletes who excel in international competitions might quickly obtain money rewards of as much as Sh6 million and diplomatic passports, beneath a brand new proposal tabled in Parliament.
The movement, launched by Mwingi West MP Charles Ngusya, seeks to compel the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports activities and Arts to determine a nationwide coverage and standardised reward system for top-performing sports activities personalities.
If adopted, the scheme would provide Sh6 million for athletes who set new world information, Sh4 million for gold medalists, Sh3 million for silver medalists, and Sh2 million for bronze medalists.
It additionally proposes non-financial advantages, together with diplomatic passports, nationwide honours, and appointment as goodwill ambassadors.
Ngusya stated the plan builds on Sessional Paper No. 3 of 2005, which envisioned varied types of state recognition and help for athletes, together with money prizes, honours, and social safety mechanisms.
“The prospect of state recognition, monetary grants, and different perks won’t solely inspire athletes to excel but additionally promote nationwide delight,” he stated whereas tabling the movement within the Nationwide Meeting.
The MP additional known as for the institution of contributory insurance coverage and post-retirement financial savings schemes to help athletes who retire resulting from harm or age.
He cited the dearth of psychosocial help and healthcare as key challenges going through many sportsmen and ladies, throughout and after their careers.
Kenya has lengthy held a worldwide popularity in athletics, with the federal government’s Imaginative and prescient 2030 citing sports activities as a key pillar for nationwide growth and youth empowerment.
Nonetheless, many athletes proceed to battle with poor post-career livelihoods, regardless of their contributions to the nation’s international recognition.
