Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed that President William Ruto will host a grand reception at State House, Nairobi, to honor Team Kenya for their outstanding performance at the recently concluded Paris Olympics.
The celebration comes after the Kenyan athletes secured a total of 11 medals, bringing glory to the nation. On Tuesday night, the first batch of athletes, led by three-time 1500m Olympic gold medalist and team captain Faith Kipyegon, along with double gold medalist Beatrice Chebet and 800m runner Koitatoi Kidali, arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and were received by CS Murkomen.
Murkomen expressed his pride in the athletes’ achievements, stating on his X account:
“Delighted to join Kenyans from all walks of life in welcoming back home our Team Kenya athletes at JKIA after their commendable performance in the 2024 Paris Olympics. This first batch of athletes, which included team captain Faith Kipyegon, double gold medalist Beatrice Chebet, and 800m runner Koitatoi Kidali, brings home a total of 11 medals—4 gold, 2 silver, and 5 bronze—placing us at the top of the African continent and 17th globally.”
Early this morning, Wednesday, August 14th, the final group of Team Kenya athletes, led by 800m gold medalist Emmanuel Wanyonyi, marathon bronze medalist Benson Kipruto, and 5000m silver medalist Ronald Kwemoi, also arrived home.
The President will host the team on Thursday, August 15th, at State House. Murkomen emphasized the significance of their achievements, stating:
“Our athletes have brought honor to our nation, earning us the distinction of being ranked the best in Africa and 17th globally, a truly remarkable feat. We also extend our deepest appreciation to all our athletes who competed valiantly, regardless of the outcome. Each one of them is a true hero. Tomorrow, H.E. President William Samoei Ruto will host a grand reception at State House to honor their incredible achievements, with further recognition to follow.”
During Tuesday’s afternoon session, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula led Members of Parliament in celebrating the accomplishments of Team Kenya athletes. Speaker Wetangula directed MPs to show their appreciation by thumping their feet for one minute, recognizing the athletes’ outstanding performances at the 30th edition of the Summer Games. He praised the athletes’ efforts, describing them as heroic.
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