Kenya Prisons sports stars feted, told to guard sporting legacy

The Kenya Prisons Service on Thursday held a colourful ceremony at the Prisons Staff Training College (PSTC) in Ruiru to honour and celebrate its outstanding sportsmen and women across various disciplines.

Kenya Prisons, known for its rich sporting heritage, has for decades remained a powerhouse in nurturing and developing athletic talent, producing champions who have proudly flown the Kenyan flag at local, regional, and international arenas.

Principal Secretary State Department for Sports, Elijah Mwangi graced the event, and heaped praise on the Kenya Prisons Service for its consistent contribution to the country’s sporting excellence.

"The government is committed to strengthening the sports sector through the construction of modern stadiums and training centres, particularly within the disciplined services, to further nurture and develop talent," he affirmed

Principal Secretary, State Department for Correctional Services, Dr. Salome Beacco, commended the Service for sustaining a strong sporting culture within its ranks.

"I encourage you to explore new disciplines, including participation in the Winter Olympics, as part of efforts to expand Kenya’s sporting frontiers," she advised.

In his remarks, Commissioner General of Prisons, Patrick Aranduh, paid glowing tribute to both active and retired athletes, coaches and referees for their dedication and outstanding contribution to the Service’s sporting success.

"I'm proud of our athletes who represented Kenya in the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, for their remarkable performance and discipline. Your achievements have further elevated the image of the Kenya Prisons Service," Aranduh averred.

Among them was newly minted women's 800m champion Lilian Odira, who not only delivered a gold medal for Kenya but broke the championship record which had stood since 1982. She clocked 1:52.62, to erase the 42-year old record.

Among others present were the president of the Kenya Volleyball Federation Charles Nyaberi, Director of Sports at the Minstry of Sports Jaxon Indakwa and directors from Prisons Headquarters.

The ceremony served as a moment of pride and reflection for the Kenya Prisons Service, celebrating not only its achievements but also reaffirming its commitment to developing the next generation of sporting champions.