Kenya's Olympic stars pocket millions after Paris heroics

All gold medalists from the recent Paris Olympics will be awarded Sh3 million each, President William Ruto has announced.

This means Beatrice Chebet, who won both the 5000m and 10,000m, will receive Sh6 million. Meanwhile, Faith Kipyegon will receive Sh3 million for winning the 1500m race, and Emmanuel Wanyonyi will get Sh3 million for winning the 800m race.

Silver medalists will receive Sh2 million each, including Kipyegon, who also earned silver in the 5000m race, and Ronald Kwemoi, who came second in the men’s 5000m race.

In the bronze category, Benson Kipruto, who finished third in the men’s marathon, and Abraham Kibiwot, who excelled in the men’s 3000m steeplechase, will each receive Sh1 million.

Other bronze winners, Mary Moraa, Hellen Obiri, and Faith Cherotich, will also receive Sh1 million each.

The President also celebrated the greatest marathon runner Eluid Kipchoge, saying even though he didn't finish the race, he remains a legend.

According to President Ruto, the government is working on expanding Kenya's participation in a broader range of sports in future Olympics.

To achieve that, the government is working on the establishment of over 20 sports academies to identify, train, and support young talent.