Speaking during a national sports development forum, President Ruto revealed a significant increase in cash rewards for athletes representing Kenya in international competitions.
Under the new framework, gold medal winners will now receive Sh3 million, silver medalists Sh2 million, and bronze medalists Sh1 million.
Ruto said the revised reward structure is part of a broader government strategy to recognize sporting excellence and motivate young athletes to pursue careers in sports.
He emphasized that Kenya’s global reputation in athletics must translate into tangible economic benefits for the athletes who bring glory to the nation.
“The Sports Bill 2026 is designed to ensure that our athletes are not only celebrated but also financially empowered. We want sports to be a viable career path, not just a passion,” the President said.
The proposed bill also seeks to overhaul sports governance, improve funding for grassroots development, and strengthen sports infrastructure across the country.
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According to the government, the reforms are intended to address long standing challenges such as delayed athlete payments, inadequate training facilities, and limited investment in youth talent development.
Sports Cabinet Secretary officials indicated that the bill will introduce stricter accountability measures for sports federations, ensuring transparency in the management of public funds and sponsorships.
The legislation will also expand medical insurance coverage for athletes and introduce pension schemes for retired sports professionals.
Athletes and sports stakeholders have largely welcomed the announcement, describing the increased rewards as a long-overdue recognition of their contribution to national pride.
However, some experts have cautioned that financial incentives must be matched with sustained investment in coaching, infrastructure, and talent scouting programs to ensure long-term success.
Kenya, a global powerhouse in middle- and long-distance running, has consistently dominated international competitions such as the Olympics and World Championships.
The government hopes that the new Sports Bill will consolidate this dominance while expanding Kenya’s presence in other sporting disciplines.
The bill is expected to be tabled in Parliament later this year for debate before its anticipated enactment in 2026. If passed, it will mark one of the most significant overhauls of Kenya’s sports policy in decades.
