Kenyan athletes who excel on the world stage could soon receive up to Ksh6 million in cash rewards, along with prestigious national honours, if a new proposal by Mwingi West MP Charles Ngusya is adopted.
Ngusya has tabled a motion in Parliament urging the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts to develop a standardized reward policy that formally recognises and compensates athletes representing Kenya in international competitions.
Under the proposed scheme, athletes who break world records would receive Ksh6 million, while gold medalists would be awarded Ksh4 million. Silver and bronze medalists would earn Ksh3 million and Ksh2 million, respectively.
But the rewards don’t stop at cash. Ngusya’s motion also proposes non-monetary incentives such as national honours, diplomatic passports to ease global travel, and appointments as goodwill ambassadors for Kenya.
“This House urges that the government, through the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Sports and Arts, develops a policy and standardized sports reward scheme for recognising the achievements made by sports persons in internationally recognised competitions, through non-financial motivation,” Ngusya said in the motion. He called for privileges like diplomatic passports, honorary appointments, and State commendations.
Ngusya reminded Parliament that the idea of rewarding athletes is not new. Sessional Paper No. 3 of 2005 already envisioned a government-led initiative to motivate sportspersons through cash prizes, honours, and social protection schemes.
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He believes a well-structured reward system will motivate athletes to push their limits, while also strengthening national pride in Kenya’s sporting legacy.
The prospect of receiving these rewards will push Kenyan athletes to reach their full potential, he told Parliament, urging lawmakers to rally behind the motion.
Ngusya also proposed the introduction of a medical insurance scheme and post-retirement support for athletes who exit sports due to injury or old age. He wants the government to establish contributory insurance and savings plans to ensure these athletes can retire with dignity.
The Mwingi West legislator underscored that sports play a vital role in preserving Kenya’s cultural identity, promoting national unity, driving development, and supporting youth livelihoods. He added that proper recognition of athletes reflects a nation’s commitment to honouring excellence and building a thriving sporting future.
