Kenya’s top leaders have renewed calls for stronger investment in sports, with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula urging MPs to channel more funds to the sector as a way of growing talent and strengthening the country’s global image.
Wetang’ula spoke during the Third Edition of The Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run, where he said athletics has become the most effective platform for placing Kenya on the world map. He noted that the National Anthem continues to be heard in international capitals because of the hard work and resilience of Kenya’s athletes.
He said the country’s sports stars have helped shape Kenya’s identity, adding that they deserve better support from national leaders. “We are always proud to watch our Kenyan sportsmen and women win races in the international Arena. Every time I see our boys and girls winning on the international platforms, I feel more proud as a Kenyan,” he said.
The event, organised by Farouk Kibet, the Personal Assistant to President William Ruto, brought together leaders who praised the initiative for opening doors for talent development across different age groups. Wetang’ula applauded Farouk for creating a platform that keeps discovering young athletes and giving them room to grow.
“In my capacity as the Speaker of the National Assembly, I urge Members of Parliament to allocate more resources to sports to grow talents. I commit to always supporting the sporting activities,” he added.
He further encouraged unity and support for the current administration, saying shared effort is key in strengthening the nation’s sporting potential. “We must love each other and support President Ruto and his Government to ensure that the leadership achieves its dream. Our talents have no boundary, and they will take us where we must be. We must all be proud as Kenyans.”
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula during the Third Edition of The Great Chepsaita Cross Country Run on December 6,2025 PHOTO/ SPUUasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii said his administration will keep backing sports activities to help develop young athletes. “We have seen young people participating in various sporting activities. It is an honour to have such people, and we are assured of the future in sports.”
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa said he plans to roll out another edition of the event to encourage more talent growth around the country. “The organiser has shown us the way; we will follow in the footsteps. This is a major milestone in our Country's sporting activities,” he noted.
Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok also highlighted the event’s value in nurturing talent. “The government has done a lot for Education. I am proud that today's event has been planned to solely support matters of Education."
World athletics champion Paul Tergat said the run continues to give hope to young people who want to earn a living through sports. “We will have many talents in the future. All stakeholders should embrace the idea that we can have our young people actively participating in sports,” he said.
Nandi Woman Rep Muge Cynthia called for joint participation by the country’s leadership to ensure Kenya maintains its global success in athletics. “We are proud as a Nation that we have been recognised globally because of talent. All of us must join hands never to lose this great talent,” she noted.
