Kenyan Athlete Faith Kipyegon Awarded $35817 And House After Breaking Records

By Samuel Ouma

Kenyan President William Ruto on June 13 rewarded athlete Faith Kipyegon following stellar performances at the Florence Diamond League in Florence, Italy, and the Wanda Diamond League in Paris.

Kipyegon set new records last week by racing the 1500M in 3:49.11 and the 5000M in 14:05.20.

Speaking at the State House, Nairobi, President Ruto awarded Kipyego Ksh.5 million ($35817) and a house worth Ksh6 million ($42980) for making the country proud.

“Faith stands as a shining role-model for consistency, discipline, hard work and family values. Here is a mother, a wife and a legendary Olympian, multiple World Champion who now holds two brand new world records and is a wife and mother to boot,” said President Ruto.

Ruto also gave Ksh2 million ($14327) to Ferdinand Omanyala, the African 100-meter champion for 2023, for setting the pace for future runners in short races.

He praised African Champion Ferdinand Omanyala's "explosive" sprints and the "fast-rising" 800M King and Queen, Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Mary Moraa, for making Kenya proud and encouraged them to continue their goal of a golden future.

The Kenyan president also said that a new world record holder will now get Ksh5 million ($35817) as part of a new effort to raise Kenya's status as a top sporting country.

Such achievers will also be granted diplomatic passports and other national honours and privileges.

Ruto further stated that the government is refining the required rules and facilities to maximize the country's sporting potential.

“Our sportsmen and women are heroes who have promoted Kenya’s iconic brand globally; we want to acknowledge their invaluable contribution by honouring and rewarding them accordingly," added Ruto.